Olympic bronze medalist and former African champion Chika Chukwumerije has stepped into a significant new leadership role as the Chairman of the Abia Taekwondo Association. His appointment, along with a 13-member board, was officially confirmed by the Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu. The state government has set a high bar for the team, charging them with the task of transforming Abia into a premier destination for sports in Nigeria.
Speaking on behalf of the newly formed association, Chukwumerije expressed his sincere appreciation to the state leadership for the opportunity to serve. He made it clear that his administration is ready to get to work, with a specific focus on identifying fresh talent within the grassroots and school systems. The goal, according to the former champion, is to take young athletes from the streets of Abia and groom them into world-class competitors.
During the inauguration, as reported by Zoyols News, Chukwumerije emphasized that Abia has all the natural talent required to lead the country in combat sports. He vowed to give his best to ensure the state becomes a powerhouse, focusing on homegrown development. He believes that by providing a structured path for these youngsters, the association can help them build sustainable careers through sports.
Beyond just training athletes, Chukwumerije shared a broader vision for the state’s industrial potential. He pointed to Aba’s reputation as a manufacturing hub, suggesting that the city could become a center for producing high-quality sporting equipment. He noted that Abia could eventually move from being a consumer to a supplier, providing gear to other states across the federation while boosting the local economy.
Looking toward the future, the new chairman assured potential sponsors and the public that the next four years will be dedicated to excellence. He promised that with the right collaborations and hard work, Abia will soon produce athletes capable of winning on the global stage.
The board working alongside him includes Dr. Innocent Anucha as Vice Chairman, with a diverse team of members including Okechi Onwuka, Christian Onyinyechi, Glory Ezema Oluchi, ACP Emelike Chinenye, Christian Nnaukwu, Obioma Akomas, Ohia Ifeanyi, Charles Enakhaze, China Orji, Arua Ogbonnaya, and Secretary Olekanma Orji. Together, they represent a unified front aimed at redefining the future of Taekwondo in the region.
