By Solomon OKPO
The Akwa Ibom State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to grassroots sports development with the presentation of newly acquired sports equipment and the commissioning of a modern gymnasium at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
Speaking at the ceremony on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, described the occasion as a defining moment that signals a new era of growth and repositioning of sports in the state.
Bassey said the achievements, realized within one year of the creation of a stand-alone Ministry of Sports, demonstrate the determination of the Pastor Umo Eno-led administration to revive sports and harness its potential for youth empowerment and sustainable development.
He expressed deep appreciation to Governor Umo Eno for establishing a dedicated Ministry of Sports and for providing the funds that made the acquisition of modern equipment and facilities possible.
“Our core mandate, as outlined in the ARISE Agenda of this administration, is to return to the grassroots to discover, nurture and prepare sporting talents for national and international prominence,” the commissioner said.
According to him, the ministry procured high-quality sports equipment, many of which were sourced from abroad and meet international standards, to serve the state’s 42 registered sports associations.
Bassey noted that the absence of modern facilities in the past forced many athletes to rely on private gyms or relocate to other states where they eventually represented rival teams, a situation the present administration is determined to reverse.
“With these modern facilities and equipment, our athletes now have the opportunity to adequately prepare themselves to represent Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria in major competitions,” he added.
He expressed confidence that the new gymnasium and equipment would enhance athletes’ stamina, skills and techniques, and help produce global sports stars, citing renowned Akwa Ibom sports personalities including former Super Eagles captain Vincent Enyeama, William Troost-Ekong, Olympians Enefiok Udobong and Utitofon Nkanta, and Rio 2016 bronze medalist Ndifreke Effiong.
The commissioner also disclosed that Governor Eno has approved the construction of a co-educational Ibom Sports Academy in Eket, with fencing and gatehouse construction already underway.
He urged athletes across the state to take full advantage of the facilities to secure their future in the lucrative sports industry and bring pride to Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria.
The event was attended by officials of the Ministry of Sports, coaches, athletes, sports administrators and other stakeholders.
The Evangelist News
