By Mfon Patrick and Solomon OKPO
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has thrown his weight behind Akwa Ibom-born heavyweight boxer, Moses Itauma, ahead of his highly anticipated vacant International Boxing Federation (IBF) heavyweight title fight against Filip Hrgovic at the O2 Arena in London on Saturday, August 29.
Governor Eno, in a goodwill message conveyed by the State Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, described Itauma as a worthy ambassador of Akwa Ibom and Nigeria whose rapid rise in professional boxing has brought pride to the state and the country.
The Governor commended the young boxer for his dedication, courage and commitment to his career, noting that his achievements have placed Akwa Ibom prominently on the global boxing map.
He assured Itauma that he would not be alone when he enters the ring, stressing that the sporting community in Akwa Ibom and millions of Nigerians would be firmly behind him.
According to the Governor, the prayers, goodwill and support of Nigerians, particularly the people of Akwa Ibom, will accompany Itauma as he takes on the major challenge in his burgeoning career.
Governor Eno urged the boxer, who has recorded 14 professional victories, including 12 knockouts, to remain focused, disciplined and confident throughout the encounter.
He expressed confidence in Itauma’s ability and talent, charging him to approach the bout with determination and the winning mentality that has characterised his professional career.
“Akwa Ibom is behind you. Nigeria is behind you. Go forth and make us proud, Moses,” Governor Eno said, adding emphatically: “ARISE, Moses, ARISE!”
Itauma’s father hails from Eket in Akwa Ibom State, while his mother is from Slovakia. Born and raised in Britain, the boxer has continued to identify with his Nigerian, Slovak and British heritage.
The Saturday bout is expected to attract significant attention from boxing fans, with Itauma seeking to further establish himself among the world’s leading heavyweight contenders.
Eno to Itauma: Akwa Ibom, Nigeria Stand Firmly Behind You
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has assured heavyweight boxer Moses Itauma of the unwavering support of the state and Nigeria ahead of his IBF heavyweight title clash with Filip Hrgovic in London on Saturday.
Speaking through the Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, Governor Eno praised Itauma’s impressive professional record and described him as a worthy ambassador whose achievements continue to project Akwa Ibom on the international boxing stage.
The Governor urged the 14-fight unbeaten boxer, who has 12 knockouts to his name, to remain focused and disciplined while approaching the fight with confidence and determination.
He said the prayers and goodwill of Nigerians, especially the people of Akwa Ibom, would be with Itauma when he steps into the ring at the O2 Arena.
“Akwa Ibom is behind you. Nigeria is behind you. Go forth and make us proud, Moses,” Eno said. “ARISE, Moses, ARISE!”
Itauma, whose father is from Eket and mother from Slovakia, was raised in Britain and embraces his Nigerian, Slovak and British heritage.
