Why Abia plans tertiary education sports fiesta – Official

The Chairman, Central Organising Committee, Abia State Tertiary Education Sports Fiesta, ASTESF 2026, Dr Emeka Enyiazuin, has said the government initiative is a way to bring comradeship and unity among its youths.

Enyiazuin explained further that the fiesta is expected to bring together tertiary institutions owned and operated by the Federal Government, the Abia State Government, and private proprietors, thereby, “creating a unique platform for students and young athletes from across the state to compete, connect, showcase their talents, and celebrate the values of sportsmanship, discipline, and excellence”.

He added that the fiesta was conceived as more than a sporting competition.

“It is a platform for talent discovery, youth development, institutional friendship and healthy competition, providing an avenue through which the enormous sporting potential of students at Abia’s tertiary institutions can be identified, nurtured and linked to greater opportunities.

He said, “ASTESF is about bringing our tertiary institutions together through the unifying power of sport. Whether an institution is federal, state-owned or privately owned, our students share the same aspirations, energy and sporting potential.

“This Fiesta provides them with a common platform to compete, build friendships and demonstrate what young people can achieve when talent meets opportunity.”

He further stated that the Central Organizing Committee is working to deliver an event that meets high standards of organisation, fairness, safety, professionalism and sportsmanship, with preparations underway across the areas required for a successful sporting fiesta.

The event is slated for between November 3 and 6, 2026, and will feature about 26 sporting events.

Enyiazu called on the leadership of Federal, State and private tertiary institutions in Abia State to embrace the initiative and encourage their students to participate actively in the event.

“We want every participating institution to see ASTESF not merely as a competition to be won, but as an investment in the development of our young people. Every student who participates should leave the fiesta better – in confidence, discipline, friendship, experience and exposure”, Enyiazu added.