By Solomon OKPO
Uyo, In a landmark move for sports development and corporate collaboration in Akwa Ibom State, Ibom Air has signed a ₦200 million partnership agreement with Akwa United Football Club, the 2021 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions and two-time FA Cup winners.
The agreement, signed on Thursday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, makes Ibom Air the Official Sponsor of Akwa United FC for an initial two-year term. The sponsorship, worth ₦200 million, includes both cash and in-kind contributions, with half of the total value provided through services and logistics support.
The signing ceremony, which drew sports administrators, government officials, and media representatives, marked what many described as a milestone in the state’s drive to strengthen the link between sports and the private sector.
Speaking at the event, Mr. George Uriesi, Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ibom Air, said the partnership underscores the airline’s commitment to supporting community-driven initiatives.
“At Ibom Air, our core pillars of support are Health, Community Development, Education, and Sports,” Uriesi said. “Akwa United is a club with a proud championship history and is currently rebuilding. Our goal is to help them rise again back to the top of the league and beyond.”
He added that the partnership reflects Ibom Air’s belief in the unifying power of sports to inspire young people and strengthen state pride.
Mr. Joseph Eno, Chairman of Akwa United FC, expressed gratitude to Ibom Air, describing the sponsorship as “strategic and timely.”
“This partnership comes at a crucial moment as we work to regain our best form,” Eno stated. “Having Ibom Air as our sponsor boosts the morale of our players and reminds us that we represent excellence both on and off the pitch.”
Also speaking at the event, Elder Paul Bassey, Commissioner for Sports, hailed the collaboration as a fulfillment of the state government’s vision to promote private sector involvement in sports, in line with the ARISE Agenda of Governor Umo Eno.
“I have always envisioned a day when Ibom Air and Akwa United would come together in true partnership,” Bassey said. “This is a significant step toward building local sports to global standards, and I believe it will bring lasting success to both parties.”
The ceremony also featured the unveiling of Akwa United’s new jersey, the inauguration of working committees, and interactive sessions with media representatives.
With this partnership, Ibom Air joins a growing list of Nigerian companies investing in sports as a tool for youth empowerment, brand visibility, and community engagement.
