Abia Governor, Dr Alex Otti Nominated For SWAN Merit Award

Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti has been nominated as Best Governor (Sports Development), South East, in the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) Merit Award to be held on October 31st in Abuja. 

The award ceremony is part of events marking SWAN's Diamond Jubilee Celebration (SWAN at 60). SWAN notes that Dr Otti's administration has demonstrated commitment to the advancement of sports. 

"Your Excellency's administration has made remarkable strides in sports development, setting a shining example of visionary leadership in the South-East region and Nigeria at large. 

"Your commitment to the advancement of sports infrastructure, athlete welfare and youth empowerment continues to inspire hope and progress across the country," said Isaiah Benjamin, the National President of SWAN. 

Abia State has witnessed a major turnaround in sporting activities in the past two years; hosting local and international events. 

In 2024, Abia State hosted the World Teqball qualifiers, among other grassroots tournaments which have unearthed talents. The state also produced its best ever performance at the National Youth Games and also made a strong statement at the 2025 National Sports Festival. 

Abia State recently hosted the Africa Para-Badminton Championship in Umuahia. 

Abia State also has two teams in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) and also in the Nigeria Women's Football League (NWFL) Premiership and in the Nigeria National League (NNL). 

The SWAN Merit Awards seeks to honour deserving leaders who have demonstrated outstanding contributions to the development of sports and support for sports journalism.