Umo Eno receives unity torch ahead of Akwa Ibom Sports Festival

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, on Friday received the unity torch ahead of the State Sports Festival scheduled to hold from September 8 to 13, 2025.

The symbolic torch was presented to him at Government House, Uyo, where the governor described the festival as a major platform for nurturing sporting talents and advancing youth development across the state.

Governor Eno noted that sports, being a multi-billion-dollar global industry, remain a viable channel for producing future superstars like William Troost-Ekong, Lionel Messi, and Coco Gauff, while also contributing to the growth of the state and Nigeria at large.

“For the first time in 14 years, we have approved the purchase of modern sports equipment to give our athletes world-class tools to train, compete, and excel. Sports will now be a way of life for our talented youth,” the governor said.

Eno further disclosed that the festival would serve as a recruitment base for the first intake of the new sports academy. He said this year’s theme, “Nurturing talents, promoting tourism,” reflects his administration’s vision of positioning sports not only as a tool for youth development but also as a driver of economic growth and tourism.

Highlighting Akwa Ibom’s sports infrastructure, the governor pointed to the ARISE Resort and the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium as assets that have transformed the state into a hub for sports tourism in Nigeria and West Africa. He also praised the festival logo for capturing the spirit of unity, teamwork, agility, vitality, and cultural pride, with the state’s map at its center symbolizing identity and heritage.

Speaking with journalists, Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey revealed that the forthcoming event would be the first state-wide sports festival in 18 years. Unlike previous editions, which focused mainly on youth competitions, this year’s festival will feature athletes across all age groups, covering both indoor and outdoor sporting activities.

Present at the unity torch presentation were Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Lady Helen Obareki, members of the State Executive Council, and other dignitaries.