By Solomon OKPO
The Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Sports has unveiled a new radio programme, Kick-Off Akwa Ibom, as part of intensified preparations for the state’s participation in the Niger Delta Games (NDG) scheduled to hold in Edo State from February 20 to 27, 2026.
The pioneer edition of the programme was launched on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, and will air weekly on Inspiration FM every Wednesday from 1:30pm to 2:00pm, with a repeat broadcast on Saturdays at 6:30pm.
Speaking at the unveiling, the Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, said the programme was conceived to highlight the achievements of the current administration in the sports sector while keeping stakeholders and the public informed about ongoing preparations, policies and development initiatives of the Ministry.
According to him, Kick-Off Akwa Ibom is designed as a strategic engagement platform to promote sports development, showcase government investments and strengthen public participation in sports across the state.
Elder Bassey expressed appreciation to Governor Umo Eno for what he described as unwavering support for sports development, noting that the governor remains committed to talent discovery, grassroots sports and youth empowerment.
A major feature of the maiden edition was the unveiling of newly acquired sports equipment and a modern gym facility at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, aimed at improving athletes’ fitness levels and competitive readiness. The Commissioner disclosed that the facility is open to athletes, staff of the Ministry of Sports and sports projects, including Akwa United Football Club.
Reflecting on the recently concluded NDG trials in the state, Elder Bassey commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and Dunamis International Ltd for the successful organisation of the second edition of the Games. He confirmed that Akwa Ibom will participate in all 16 sports events at the Games, with a contingent of 270 athletes and 46 coaches, all drawn strictly from indigenous talent.
“The Governor’s vision is to develop talents, not to put pressure on athletes. I closely monitored the trials and I am impressed with what I saw. We are ready to compete across all events with indigenous athletes,” he said.
He recalled that during the maiden edition of the NDG, which Akwa Ibom hosted, emphasis was placed on infrastructure development, which affected competitive preparation. However, he expressed confidence that the state would record a stronger outing at the Edo Games.
The Commissioner also welcomed the decision by NDG organisers to restrict participation to indigenous athletes, describing it as a policy that aligns with the core objective of genuine talent discovery across the Niger Delta region.
Highlighting achievements recorded within one year of the current administration, Elder Bassey listed the ongoing construction and fencing of the ARISE Sports Academy, acquisition of modern sports equipment and plans for a Train-the-Trainers programme to enhance the technical capacity of coaches and Ministry personnel.
He further disclosed that the Governor’s Cup, last held in 2023, is likely to return this year, describing it as a vital grassroots competition that serves as a major scouting platform for future sports stars. He also noted improved performances by Akwa United Football Club, expressing optimism that the team is on course for a return to Nigeria’s top football division.
In his one year in office, the Commissioner assured that the Ministry would sustain its momentum, with continued focus on state sports festivals, school sports programmes and inclusive sporting activities.
Earlier, the programme anchor, Mfon Patrick, explained that Kick-Off Akwa Ibom will regularly feature sports association chairmen, coaches, athletes, directors of the Ministry and notable sports personalities, providing a consistent platform for dialogue, engagement and sports development in Akwa Ibom State.
