As the maiden edition of the Niger Delta Sports Festival kicks off on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at the Uyo Sports Stadium, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has expressed the State’s delight in hosting the event and called for massive support from residents.
Speaking during the April edition of the Government House Monthly Covenant Service in Uyo, the Governor described it as a privilege for Akwa Ibom to be the first state to host the festival.
He encouraged residents to attend and cheer for the athletes, emphasizing that the event would attract distinguished guests and boost tourism in the state. Governor Eno also praised the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for selecting Akwa Ibom as the host state and commended the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for their dedication in ensuring a smooth and successful festival.
“I am confident that the NDDC Sports Festival will be a resounding success,” he stated, adding that the event will help promote sports, culture, and tourism in Akwa Ibom.
Looking ahead, the Governor announced plans for the first-ever Akwa Ibom State Sports Festival, which he believes should become an annual event. He reiterated his commitment to providing platforms for local athletes to excel while boosting sports tourism in the State.
Governor Eno also revealed plans for a Tourism Summit aimed at positioning Akwa Ibom as a leading tourism destination in Nigeria.
Additionally, he informed attendees about the upcoming Town Square Meeting scheduled for April 5 in Oron, marking the second in a series of citizen engagement meetings. He expressed optimism that the event would build on the success of the inaugural meeting in Abak, bringing governance closer to the people.
Earlier, in his sermon titled “My Grace Cannot Be in Vain,” Most Rev. John Ayah, Catholic Bishop of Uyo Diocese, highlighted Akwa Ibom’s rich human and natural resources. He emphasized that God would continue to bless the State if it embraced good governance, the rule of law, and unity.
The Chairman of the State’s Christian Advisory Council, Most Rev. Joseph Ekuwem, Catholic Archbishop of Calabar, also commended Governor Umo Eno for his humility and leadership style, expressing pride in being an Akwa Ibomite.
The service featured choir ministrations, praise and worship, and prayers for the State and its leaders.
