Abia State emerged the overall champions of the maiden South-East Amateur Boxing Championship, topping the medals table at the end of the competition in Umuahia.
The host state dominated the championship, clinching eight gold, three silver and two bronze medals to secure first place.
Enugu State finished second with four gold and four silver medals, while Imo State placed third with one gold, one silver and five bronze medals.
Anambra State came fourth with one gold and two bronze medals, while Ebonyi State finished fifth after winning two silver and three bronze medals.
Declaring the championship closed on Friday, the Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Mr. Nwaobilor Ananaba, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mrs. Jane Igwe, commended athletes and officials from the participating states for displaying discipline, resilience and sportsmanship throughout the competition.
The commissioner reiterated the commitment of Governor Otti’s administration to grassroots sports development, describing it as a strategic pathway for discovering and nurturing future champions for Abia State, the South-East and Nigeria.
“We have not only witnessed exciting boxing contests but also the emergence of talents capable of representing Nigeria on the global stage,” he said.
Earlier, the Director of Sports in Abia State, Mr. Obioma George, appreciated the athletes, coaches, referees, officials and participating states for contributing to the success of the maiden championship.
He praised the boxers for their determination and competitive spirit and wished all participants a safe return to their respective states.
Speaking after the championship, Abia’s Chidiebere Chukwuemeka, who emerged as the tournament’s standout boxer, expressed delight over his performance and said his ultimate ambition is to represent Nigeria at major international competitions, including the Olympic Games.
(The Whistler)