OTTI HIGHS MORALS OF ABIA PARA-ATHLETES.

Governor Alex Otti of Abia state says his administration will continue to place sports and youth development among its priorities.

Governor Otti stated this while declaring opening the first Abia National Para Powerlifting Championship at the indoor sports hall of the Umuahia Township Stadium. with a pledge to make the state a destination for inclusive sports development.

The Governor who was represented by the Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Mr. Nwaobilor Ananaba, pledged to make the state a destination for inclusive sports development.

Governor Otti noted that sports is not merely about winning medals but it creates opportunities for employment, talent development, national unity, discipline, healthy living, and the discovery of young people who would proudly represent Nigeria on the national and international stage.

While explaining that his administration believes that disability should never be a barrier to opportunity, dignity and achievement, Governor Otti encouraged the athletes to compete with determination, fairness, and the true spirit of sportsmanship.

Earlier, The Nigeria Para Powerlifting Federation, Mr James Owadi, represented by the Vice President, Mr. Akutekwe Patrick, commended Governor Alex Otti for hosting the 1st Abia State Open National Para Powerlifting Championship stressed that Powerlifting had portrayed Nigeria in a positive light at the National and international levels

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Abia State on Sports, Mr. Raymond Ukwa commended the state government for hosting the *1st Abia State Open National Para Powerlifting Championship*, describing it as a historic privilege for the state.
In a vote of thanks he Secretary of the Abia State Sports Council, Jerry Basil Udeh, expressed gratitude to *Governor Alex Otti for hosting Championship, describing it as the first national competition of its kind to be held in the state since its creation.

The four days event which attracted para-athletes across Nigeria is put together by the Abia State Government.