Abia wins eight gold medals to finish top as South-East Weightlifting Championship ends

The South-East Zonal Weightlifting Championship concluded in Umuahia, with Abia State emerging victorious, claiming eight gold medals alongside one silver and one bronze. In contrast, Imo State secured two gold, three silver, and one bronze, while Anambra State earned three silver and one bronze. Ebonyi State took home two silver and two bronze, while Enugu State rounded out the competition with three bronze medals.

The event aimed to unveil emerging weightlifting champions in Abia and Nigeria. Divine Emmanuel of Abia State claimed the gold medal in the 55kg category, lifting an impressive 155kg. At the closing ceremony, Nwaobilor Nwadinma Ananaba, Abia State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, lauded the athletes' competitive spirit, stating that the tournament exposed new talents.

He was represented by the Abia State Director of Sports, Obioma George, who commended Governor Alex Otti for hosting the tournament and providing modern weightlifting equipment for the participants.

Additionally, Chief Bernard Ezema, Coordinator of the National Sports Commission in the South-East zone, highlighted the region's reemergence in the sporting sector. He emphasized that the government's involvement in youth sports activities contributes to peace by diverting youths away from deviant activities. At Umuahia Township Stadium, Divine Emmanuel expressed that his gold medal marks a significant step towards representing both Abia State and Nigeria in national and international sporting events.