By Mfon Patrick|Solomon OKPO
Tower of Ivory Schools has commended Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for what it described as a deliberate and forward-looking investment in sports development, pledging sustained collaboration with the state government to deepen youth empowerment through sports.
The Chairman, Board of Governors of the school, DIG Prince Udom Ekpoudom (Rtd.), gave the commendation during a courtesy visit to the Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, in Uyo, following the selection of Tower of Ivory Schools’ sports facilities as one of the venues for the 2025 Akwa Ibom State Sports Festival.
Prince Ekpoudom described sports as a powerful tool for self-discovery, economic advancement and social stability, noting that the Umo Eno administration has shown uncommon commitment to harnessing sports as a development driver for the state’s youths.
He praised the governor’s decision to appoint Elder Paul Bassey as Commissioner for Sports, describing him as a seasoned administrator with passion and capacity to deliver results.
“The governor has done well by appointing someone with experience and genuine passion for sports to head the ministry. It is clear that this administration is intentional about growing sports at all levels,” he said.
Prince Ekpoudom expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Sports for the confidence reposed in the school’s facilities, stressing that the recognition had further motivated the institution to deepen its partnership with government.
“We do not take this confidence for granted. The use of our facilities during the festival has encouraged us to do more in supporting athletes and complementing government efforts in sports development,” he stated.
He disclosed that Tower of Ivory Schools has made significant investments in sports infrastructure, including the completion of a Mini-Games Village located within the school premises along Airport Road, Uyo. According to him, the facility is scheduled for inauguration next week.
“We are deliberate about integrating education with sports. Both are critical to shaping the future of our youths. Our investments are aimed at equipping students with academic excellence and sporting skills that can translate into sustainable careers,” Prince Ekpoudom added.
He formally invited the Commissioner for Sports, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mrs. Rosemary Ubia, and other top officials to the inauguration of the Mini-Games Village.
In his response, Elder Paul Bassey commended Prince Ekpoudom and the management of Tower of Ivory Schools for their “genuine and practical commitment” to sports development, particularly for granting the ministry unhindered access to their facilities during the State Sports Festival.
“Without your cooperation and support, the success recorded during last year’s festival would not have been possible,” the commissioner said.
Elder Bassey further praised the quality and maintenance of the school’s sports facilities, noting that the investment aligns with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, which places strong emphasis on youth development through sports and education.
“The construction of the Mini-Games Village is a clear demonstration of your belief in holistic education. It shows that private institutions can play a strategic role in advancing the sports vision of the state,” he noted.
He reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to partnering with individuals, institutions and corporate organisations to accelerate sports growth across Akwa Ibom State, stressing that collaborative efforts remain essential to nurturing talent and creating opportunities for the state’s youths.
