Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has declared open the 2025 State Sports Festival, themed “Nurturing Talents, Promoting Tourism.”
The ceremony, held at the Uyo Township Stadium, saw the Governor represented by his Deputy, Senator (Dr) Akon Eyakenyi. Governor Eno reiterated his administration’s commitment to discovering budding athletes and positioning sports as a driver of both youth empowerment and tourism development.
He announced the approval of a Sports Academy in Eket and the purchase of world-class training equipment to support talent grooming. He also highlighted the creation of a standalone Ministry of Sports—headed by an internationally recognized sports personality—as a historic step for Akwa Ibom.
“This sports festival is aimed at discovering talents who will eventually fly the flag of our dear state and bring us laurels. We will deeply deploy resources to the promotion of sports and get our youths ready to conquer the world,” he said.
Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, disclosed that 18 sporting events would be featured, assuring of a hitch-free tournament. ALGON Chairman, Dr. Uwemedimo Udo, pledged the support of all local government areas.
The opening featured a symbolic kickoff by the Governor, a march-past by contingents, and goodwill messages from national sports officials.