MOUAU tops medals table as Abia tertiary institutions sports festival ends
The second edition of the Abia State Tertiary Education Sports Fiesta concluded on Friday in Umuahia, with Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), leading the medal tally with a total of 110 medals.
Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic in Aba secured second place, amassing 98 medals, while Abia State University in Uturu (ABSU) ranked third with 87 medals. Gregory University, also in Uturu, placed fourth with 68 medals.
The festival featured 24 sporting events, including athletics, football, boxing, handball, judo, swimming, volleyball, basketball, wrestling, weightlifting, and chess.
During the closing ceremony, Abia State Governor Alex Otti emphasized the significance of sports in the holistic development of students in tertiary institutions. Represented by the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ikechukwu Uwanna, Otti stated that education extends beyond the mere attainment of academic qualifications.
He remarked that the participation of 18 tertiary institutions in the event would enhance the overall development of students, better preparing them for future challenges and aiding in the discovery of potential sports champions for both Abia State and Nigeria.
“Having 18 institutions compete in about 24 sporting competitions is a noteworthy achievement. This event will greatly contribute to the comprehensive growth of our students,” Otti said.
Abia State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Professor Uche Eme Uche, also addressed attendees, noting that the competition was designed to foster peace and unity among students while mitigating rivalry and conflict among institutions.
