Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has unveiled plans for a state-wide sports festival aimed at discovering new talents and expanding the state’s footprint in the national and international sports arena.
The governor made this announcement during a dinner hosted in honour of Nigerian football star William Troost-Ekong and U.S.-based Olympian Idara Otu, who visited the Government House, Uyo, with their families.
Governor Eno said the dinner was a gesture to show how much the state values its sports ambassadors, whose achievements have brought global attention to Akwa Ibom.
“This dinner is to celebrate two of our finest—Troost-Ekong and Idara Otu. You have projected Akwa Ibom to the world through your talents,” the governor stated.
He emphasized that sports development is a key priority under the ARISE Agenda, adding that initiatives such as the soon-to-be-commissioned sports academy, a 9-hole golf course, and other sporting infrastructure at the ARISE Resort are part of the state’s strategy to build a thriving sports and tourism sector.
Governor Eno further noted that Akwa Ibom remains home to Nigeria’s only FIFA-approved football field and a standard Olympic-size swimming pool, affirming that these facilities position the state to take the lead in sports advancement in the country.
He commended Troost-Ekong for his backward integration programmes, particularly through the Troost Ekong Foundation, describing it as a beacon for discovering and nurturing young talents.
“With the support of sports icons like you, the ARISE vision for sports development will be fully realized,” he said.
The governor urged all distinguished sons and daughters of Akwa Ibom to partner with the state in their various fields to help mentor the youth and elevate the state’s profile globally.
In his opening remarks, the Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, praised the governor’s passion and strategic investments in the sports sector, describing the event as a significant moment for the state.
“It’s a big deal for us to have a national team captain and an Olympian both proudly flying Akwa Ibom’s flag. Your leadership is reviving sports in the state,” Bassey noted.
Responding, Troost-Ekong thanked the governor for the honour and hospitality. He disclosed that his visit was part of a talent hunt mission by the Troost Ekong Foundation, focused on empowering Nigerian and African youths through football and education.
“We want to inspire resilience and community leadership among our youth. This support from the state is a major boost,” he said.
He also commended Governor Eno’s leadership, developmental vision, and alignment with federal policies, describing it as critical to sustained growth for Akwa Ibom.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment by both the state and its sporting ambassadors to deepen collaborations that will elevate the state as a sports powerhouse in Nigeria and beyond.
