Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, today welcomed the players and officials of Ibom Angels Football Club after their triumphant performance in the Women’s Second Division Football League Championship, which concluded yesterday in Calabar.
Ibom Angels secured one of two promotion spots to the top-tier Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) by defeating Osun Babes of Osogbo 2-0 in a thrilling semi-final play-off at U. J. Esuene Stadium.
During a colorful reception held at the Uyo Township Stadium, Governor Umo Eno, represented by the Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Sir Monday Uko, praised the team for embodying the spirit of his ARISE agenda.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth development, emphasizing efforts to empower young people to become independent and productive.
“I am glad you answered the call to rise to your full potential, achieving a victory that has brought pride and honor to our state,” Mr. Uko said. “Tomorrow, we will be launching a 5,000-job initiative for vulnerable youths, further demonstrating how seriously we value youth development.”
In recognition of their achievement, the Governor made a cash donation and other incentives to the team, urging them to sustain their winning momentum as they prepare for the 2024/2025 NWFL season.
In response, Ibom Angels’ Head Coach, Mr. Edwin Okon, and team captain, Abasiofon Uwah, expressed their gratitude to the Governor for the continuous support despite the country’s economic challenges. They also thanked him for the generous cash and material donations, pledging to work even harder to bring more glory to the state.
The event was attended by dignitaries including Lady Rose Bassey, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Iniobong Akpan, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Matters, Mrs. Brigid Otton, Director of Sports, and Mr. Samuel Umoh, Chairman of AKSFA, among others.