By Solomon OKPO | The Evangelist Sports Desk
The emergence of Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, as the Football Friendly Governor of the Year 2025 at the 12th Nigeria Pitch Awards has been described as a significant recognition of the growing profile of sports under his administration.
Governor Eno emerged ahead of two other prominent football-loving governors, polling an impressive 123 points to beat Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, who scored 99 points, while Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, garnered 78 points to place third. His 24-point margin over the second-placed governor underscores the strong recognition of his commitment to football and sports development.
The award also reflects Akwa Ibom’s increasing prominence as a destination for major sporting activities in Nigeria. The state has continued to host the Super Eagles, Nigeria’s senior national football team, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, which has established itself as one of the country’s preferred venues for major international fixtures.
Beyond hosting international football matches, the Eno administration has sustained its emphasis on grassroots sports development, youth participation and talent discovery, providing platforms for young athletes to develop their potential.
The preparations for the 2026 Akwa Ibom State Sports Festival, involving athletes and officials from the state’s 31 local government areas, further demonstrate the administration’s determination to use sports as a vehicle for youth empowerment, unity and economic opportunity.
The Governor’s 123-point victory, therefore, goes beyond an individual honour, as it highlights what is increasingly being seen as a broader sporting vision for Akwa Ibom. With its world-class sporting infrastructure, growing grassroots programmes and strong relationship with the Super Eagles, the state is steadily strengthening its position as a leading sports destination in Nigeria.
The Nigeria Pitch Awards recognition has consequently added another important chapter to Akwa Ibom’s evolving sports story, while placing Governor Eno’s sports policies and investments in the national spotlight.
