The South East Taekwondo Championships illuminated Owerri as Imo State emerged as the standout performer at the event held in the Indoor Hall of the Dan Anyiam Stadium. A total of 74 athletes from four South-eastern states fiercely competed for top honours during the three-day event, which took place from 7th to 9th November 2025.
Imo State topped the medal table with an impressive haul of 41 medals, comprising 13 gold, 15 silver, and 13 bronze. Abia State followed closely with 28 medals, including 12 gold, 11 silver, and 5 bronze. Ebonyi State secured 8 medals, featuring 4 gold, 3 silver, and 1 bronze, while Enugu State collected 4 medals, consisting of 2 gold, 1 silver, and 1 bronze.
The Honourable Commissioner for Sports in Imo State, Honourable Obinna Onyeocha, attended the event to witness his state’s remarkable achievement and praised the organisers during the medal presentation ceremony. “I applaud this event that fosters grassroots development and provides exposure for our youth in the region.
“It is essential that we sustain such initiatives, as they can cultivate national and international champions who will bring pride to our region and state,” he stated.
Olympic medallist Chika Chukwumerije, returning to the Taekwondo management scene after a four-year absence, expressed his enthusiasm for the event. “I am delighted to see everyone come together to promote grassroots development. Our youth deserve this exposure, and investing in their growth is undoubtedly the way forward. This is how we build future champions, one step at a time.”
Thirteen-year-old Ikechukwu Chidiebere from Abia State, who won the gold medal in the Cadets -49kg category, shared his excitement about his victory and its impact on his development. “I won two bronze medals at the National Youth Games, but I hadn’t competed since then. I was worried about the lack of competition. This event helped me correct some mistakes that cost me the top position at the National Youth Games and has significantly boosted my confidence.”
For Musa Enakheme, Assistant Taekwondo Coach for Enugu State, the championships served as crucial preparation for the upcoming National Sports Festival. “As hosts of the National Sports Festival, we are diligently working to assemble a state team. We have not participated in any events for quite some time. This competition was an eye-opener, highlighting the areas where we need to improve.”
The next regional competition is set to take place from 20th to 21st February in Umuahia, Abia State.
