By Ihechinyere Chigemeri-Uwom
The Abia Government has pledged renewed support for the revival of cricket in the state, with assurances that the sport will benefit from the administration’s ongoing investments in sports infrastructure.
The Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Nwobilor Ananaba, said this on Saturday, at the opening of the fifth edition of the South-East Cricket Championship in Umuahia.
The source reports that the event was organised by the South-East Cricket Association in collaboration with the State Government would run from Saturday to Tuesday.
The commissioner, represented by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Sports, Raymond Ukwa, expressed government’s resolve to continue evolving programmes and policies that support sports across the board.
“It might interest you to know that just about a month ago, we had the world travel to Abia to play at the Abia first International Para-badminton Championship with about 13 countries in attendance.”
He said that the government’s actions underscored its zeal and commitment to make Abia one of the foremost states in the country that invests heavily in sports development.
“We are not just investing in football, we are also investing in other sports, both track and field, and table sports as well.
“Sports is a contributor to the economy, and it is our goal to ensure that no sector will be left behind.”
He acknowledged that the absence of a standard cricket pitch had limited the sport’s growth in the state, but assured that the issue was being addressed.
“Part of what you have noted is that we do not have the adequate pitch for you to play cricket here.
“What we continue to do is to identify these problems and solve them.”
Ananaba explained that the ongoing upgrade of the Umuahia Township Stadium was part of the administration’s efforts to create inclusive sporting spaces for young talents.
“We are also planning to incorporate cricket into our proposed multi use sports spaces, so that you can have the same experience you would have in South Africa or America.”
In his remarks, the zonal representative of the association, Chika Okoro, commended the Abia Government for showing genuine interest in cricket development.
“We have had a series of obstacles along the way, but this is the first time we are having a government that is willing to partner with us, which is what we have always prayed for.”
He described the event as historic and expressed hope that the present administration would significantly contribute to the development of the sport.
Okoro said:“For me, this is a book-making ceremony, because big things start small.
“Gov. Alex Otti was brought into Abia State by God to wipe away the tears of many years and he is also going to wipe away the tears of cricketers.”
He appealed for the establishment of a standard pitch, noting that the sport did not require huge financial outlays.
“Our greatest problem is a standard pitch and once that is addressed, development will be easier.
“We are not like football where you need to bring ₦100 million; just give us only ₦20 million, we will manage, go and make a name, and come back,” Okoro said.
In an interview with newsmen, veteran cricketer and former Nigerian national team player, Chris Obasi, expressed excitement over the revival of the sport in his home state.
“I feel excited that my own state is giving this privilege to the younger ones.
“The governor is a visionary and supportive leader, and I thank him for giving Ndi Abia the opportunity to be part of what is happening in the cricket world.”
He advised young players to remain committed to the sport, describing cricket as a viable career path.
“My advice to the young cricketers is for them to put in their best, not only during this tournament, but to see it as a way of life.
“Sports has become a career people can earn well from, and cricket is one of those games.”
In separate interviews with newsmen some young cricketers participating in the championship, expressed excitement and urged the government to sustain its support for cricket development.
A player from Enugu, Goodluck Agbo, said he was happy to represent his state and hoped to make Enugu Government proud.
“We came to do our best and make the government proud.
“If we win, I want the government to keep supporting us,” he said.
Another player from Anambra, Chukwujekwu Nwachukwu, said that he had trained very well in preparation for the tournament.
“My expectation is that Anambra will win and that the government will sponsor us to go far,”Nwachukwu added.
Similarly, 11-year-old Moses Ajagbo from Ebonyi, said he trained hard to qualify for the competition.
Ajagbo said: “I have passion for cricket and I would like to go higher in this sport.
“I am hopeful that my team would win, and I would like my state government to sponsor us to play in other parts of the country.”
The inter-school cricket tournament witnessed exciting action as teams showcased skill and determination on the field.
In the opening match, Government Secondary School Owerri defeated Government Secondary School Afikpo by 10 wickets, demonstrating superior batting and disciplined bowling.
IDE Secondary School, Enugwu Ukwu Boys recorded a commanding win over Regina Secondary School, Enugu State, by 9 wickets in the second match.
The final game of the day saw Regina Secondary School, Enugu State, bounce back to beat Ohafia Model High School, Ebem, Ohafia, Abia, by 36 runs, highlighting the team’s resilience and strategic play.
The tournament continues to provide a platform for young cricketers to hone their skills and promote sporting excellence.
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