By Solomon OKPO | Sports Recorder Desk
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has approved immediate employment into the state civil service for three Akwa Ibom athletes who won medals for Nigeria at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.
Governor Eno announced the gesture on Thursday during the official lighting of the Torch of Unity to mark the commencement of the 2026 Akwa Ibom State Sports Festival at Government House, Uyo.
The beneficiaries are Edidiong Umoafia, who won gold in weightlifting; Ruth Nyong, who secured silver in weightlifting; and Enku Ekuta, who won bronze in judo. The Governor commended the athletes for their hard work, discipline and dedication, describing their achievements as a source of pride to Akwa Ibom and Nigeria.
He directed the Commissioner for Sports Development, Elder Paul Bassey, to make arrangements for the athletes to be formally rewarded during the opening ceremony of the 2026 Akwa Ibom State Sports Festival on Tuesday, September 22. He also directed the Head of the State Civil Service to formalise their employment and post them to the Ministry of Sports Development.
The gesture, according to the state government, reflects Governor Eno’s commitment to rewarding sporting excellence, empowering young people and encouraging athletes to attain greater heights while promoting Akwa Ibom positively at national and international competitions.
