Chukwumerije heads Abia Taekwondo, vows to unearth talents

Beijing 2008 Olympic bronze medallist, Chika Chukwumerije, has been appointed chairman of the Abia State Taekwondo Association, pledging to discover and develop grassroots talents across the state.

The former African champion made the commitment during the inauguration of the association’s 13-member board by Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu.

Speaking after the inauguration, Chukwumerije expressed gratitude for the opportunity and assured stakeholders of the board’s readiness to reposition Abia as one of Nigeria’s leading sporting states.

“We promise to give our best to make Abia one of the best sporting states in the country,” he said.

The newly appointed chairman emphasised the importance of grassroots development, noting that schools would serve as the foundation for discovering and nurturing future champions.

“Our focus should be on identifying talents from school that will be groomed at home to become world beaters,” he added.

Beyond athlete development, Chukwumerije highlighted the broader economic potential of sports in the state. He pointed to the industrial capacity of Aba as a key factor in building a sustainable sports ecosystem through the local production of sporting equipment.

“With Aba, we can produce all sporting equipment and even sell to other states,” he said.

He also assured sponsors and other stakeholders of the board’s commitment, expressing confidence that within four years, Abia would not only produce local champions but also athletes capable of excelling on the global stage.

Other members of the board include Vice Chairman Dr Innocent Anucha, Okechi Onwuka, Christian Onyinyechi, Glory Ezema Oluchi, Emelike Chinenye, Christian Nnaukwu, Obioma Akomas, Ohia Ifeanyi, Charles Enakhaze, China Orji, Arua Ogbonnaya and secretary Olekanma Orji.