The Abia State Government has redeemed its cash award promise to athletes who made the state proud in national and international sporting events.
Governor Alex Otti had, while receiving them in October, promised N33 million to all the athletes, N22 million to the coaches, and N20 million to the two athletes who won gold and silver medals at the Paris 2024 Paralympics for Nigeria.
He also promised to transform the Umuahia township stadium, acquire a Coaster bus for the Abia State Sports Council and buy an official car for the state’s director of sports.
Releasing the money to the athletes in front of their parents on Thursday at Umuahia township stadium, Abia State Director of Sports, Obioma George, said that the money is being paid into the personal bank accounts of the athletes, noting that those without bank accounts would receive their money through their parents’ bank accounts.
The Director of Sports added that the 15 athletes who were given automatic employment in the state’s sports council by Governor Otti have been processed for eventual employment.
According to him, Governor Alex Otti gave them automatic employment to retain them in Abia and to prevent them from dumping Abia for other states or countries.
Obioma said the cash rewards and employment would encourage them to do more for the state.
He, however, warned parents who will receive money on behalf of their children against squandering the cash but to use it for the academics and professional development of the young athletes.
