The Dr Alex Otti South East Open Darts Championship kicked off on Tuesday, 17th March 2026 at the Indoor Sports Hall, Umuahia Township Stadium.
The Abia State Commissioner For Sports, Sir Nwaobilor Ananaba declared the event open. He noted that the Darts Championship was conceived by the Governor of Abia State, Dr.Alex Otti to further ensure grassroots sports development as an initiative to create opportunities for more talents to be discovered in the state as well as support the sport sector.
“I’m honoured to welcome you to the Dr. Alex Chioma Otti South East Open Darts Championship, a competition conceived to extoll His Excellency’s support in the sports sector, which has led to pushing beyond limits, achieving more, telling a new and empowering story in various sports disciplines in the state, including Darts,” he said.
He further pointed out that Governor Otti’s dedication to nurturing talents and promoting sports excellence in Abia State has made the championship a possibility.
“We’re proud to host this prestigious tournament in Abia State, a testament to our commitment’ to sports development. Governor Otti’s dedication to nurturing talent and promoting sports excellence has made this championship possible,” added Ananaba.
The Commissioner enjoined participants to ensure the spirit of sportsmanship as they showcase their skills in the competition.
“To our participants, you’re here to showcase your skills, sportsmanship, and determination. May this tournament inspire you to reach new heights.
“Let’s celebrate the spirit of competition, camaraderie, and excellence. Welcome to Abia State, where sports meet passion,” he concluded.
Speaking earlier, Vice President Darts Federation of Nigeria and Zonal Rep South East, Sir Onwuka Vitalis in his open remark thanked Governor Alex Otti for the event, recalling that Darts started from the South East 19 years ago and added that Abia is taking the lead because of sponsorship. He revealed that lack of sponsorship deprived the state an opportunity to participate at the international tournament some years ago.
He expressed optimism that Abia will one day host an International Dart Championship.
The Director of Sports, Abia State Sports Council, Emmanuel Obioma George who also spoke at the opening ceremony expressed excitement that the game of Dart has developed in Abia while assuring that Abia athletes will represent Nigeria in top competitions.
He said the game of Dart is not expensive and it’s equipments are easy to maintain.