Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), emerged as the overall champions of the inaugural Abia State Tertiary Education Sports Fiesta (ASTEF 2025), dominating the four-day sporting extravaganza with a total of 87 medals.
The maiden edition, which concluded today with a vibrant closing ceremony, saw 16 higher institutions across Abia State compete in 22 sporting events, including athletics, football, swimming, kickboxing, chess, judo, wrestling, and various racket games.
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MOUAU secured 51 gold, 30 silver, and 6 bronze medals to top the medal table, closely followed by Gregory University, Uturu (GUU), with 64 medals, and the Federal Polytechnic, Ogbanna Onu, with 71.
The final day featured intense competitions in football and swimming, drawing cheers from students and dignitaries alike. Speaking on behalf of Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, Chief of Staff Pastor Caleb Ajagba lauded the participating schools for their discipline and sportsmanship, emphasizing that the essence of the fiesta went beyond medals.
“While we celebrate our medal winners, remember that this event is not merely about gold, silver, or bronze. It is about forging unbreakable bonds of unity, understanding, and shared purpose among the future leaders of our state. The greatest trophy won from this fiesta is the unity we have built,” Pastor Ajagba stated.
The Student Union Governments (SUGs) of the participating institutions expressed their appreciation to the Governor and his team, noting that the fiesta successfully bridged gaps between tertiary students and fostered inter-institutional harmony.
Remarks from the Commissioner for Tertiary Education and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tertiary Institutions further commended the high standards of organization and performance.
The successful conclusion of ASTEF 2025 sets a promising precedent for future editions, positioning it as a key platform for youth development, sporting excellence, and unity among Abia State’s tertiary institutions.
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