By Solomon OKPO
In a remarkable turn of events, young Promise Robert Udo, a female athlete who joined Indomitable Strikers Academy in August 2024 with no prior experience in sports, has emerged as one of the standout players selected to represent Akwa Ibom State at the prestigious 22nd National Sports Festival holding in Ogun State from May 16, 2025.
Promise enrolled in the Academy shortly after writing her Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE), choosing to explore Volleyball and Badminton for the first time. With consistent training under the Academy’s skilled coaching team, she rapidly developed competitive prowess—particularly in Badminton.
She is joined by two other exceptional athletes: Precious Emmanuel Asukwo and Anietie Gabriel Effiong, both of whom are hearing and speech impaired. Their selection underscores the Academy’s inclusive philosophy and commitment to nurturing potential across all abilities.
The trio will be among the contingent representing Akwa Ibom State at the Gateway Games, as Ogun State—under the leadership of Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun—hosts the nation’s largest sports gathering at the MKO Abiola International Stadium, Abeokuta, and other venues.
Indomitable Strikers Academy, chaired by Mkpisong Eyobong Usanga (The Otuekong Awa Afagha) and run by Lady Idongesit Mbuk, offers a rare blend of sports training and basic education to vulnerable and enthusiastic children aged 8–20. The Academy’s mission is to discover, develop, and deploy talents for national and global impact.
As Ogun State prepares to host the nation, Promise, Precious, and Anietie stand as glowing examples of what dedication, opportunity, and inclusive training can achieve in grassroots sports development.
