By Sports Recorder
In line with Governor Umo Eno’s directive for a comprehensive on-the-spot assessment of sports infrastructure across Akwa Ibom State, the Honourable Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, on Thursday, October 30, 2025, led a delegation from the Ministry of Sports to the Eket Stadium to conclude the statewide inspection exercise.
The visit to Eket marks the final leg of an extensive tour that had earlier taken the Commissioner and his team to the Ikot Ekpene Stadium, West Itam Sports Centre, Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, the Uyo Township Stadium, and the Olympic-sized swimming pool in Uyo.
The assessment is part of efforts to evaluate facility conditions and identify key areas requiring renovation and upgrade to enhance sports development in the state.
Accompanied by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Rosemary Ubia, and several directors from the Ministry, Elder Bassey was received at the Eket Stadium by the Stadium Manager, Mr. Samuel Ettentuk, and the Director of Facilities, Mr. Victor Owokure. The management team conducted the delegation around the complex, highlighting sections needing urgent repair and improvement.
During the visit, Elder Bassey directed the immediate engagement of an ad hoc security staff, Mr. Daniel Sampson, who had reportedly served the facility for over two years without remuneration. The Commissioner commended his dedication and pledged that his contributions would be formally recognized.
Interacting with athletes training at the facility, Elder Bassey urged them to remain disciplined and committed, emphasizing that sports can serve as a viable and fulfilling career path. He further instructed the Stadium Manager to compile a comprehensive list of active track and field athletes, including their performance records and training needs, to enable the Ministry to provide targeted support and exposure to national and international competitions.
Speaking after the inspection, Permanent Secretary Mrs. Rosemary Ubia described the exercise as a fulfillment of Governor Umo Eno’s mandate to maintain and upgrade sports infrastructure across the state. She lauded the Governor’s unwavering support for sports development, citing his consistent funding and encouragement during the last Akwa Ibom State Sports Festival.
Mrs. Ubia added that a detailed report of the inspection would be compiled and submitted to the Governor for necessary action. She also praised the Commissioner’s leadership, noting that Elder Bassey’s commitment and passion have continued to drive the state’s sports advancement agenda.
Others on the inspection team included the Director of Sports, Mrs. Brigid Otton; Director of Administration, Mrs. Iniobong Udo; Director of Coaching, Mrs. Catherine Ekuta; Director of Planning, Research and Statistics, Mrs. Peace Dan; Assistant Director of Administration, Mr. James James; and Assistant Director of Accounts, Mr. Eyakeno Akpan.
