Aides to Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, have commended the administration’s strategic investment in the Eket Sports Academy, describing it as a cornerstone of the ARISE Agenda aimed at empowering young people and expanding the state’s economy.
During the radio programme “Ibom Matters Arising” on Heritage 104.9 FM, anchored by Kufre George and powered by the office of the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Ekerete Udoh, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Media, Mr. Mfon Bassey, and the Personal Assistant on New Media, Comrade Jeremiah Edoho, said the academy represents the governor’s visionary and pragmatic leadership in using sports as a tool for social inclusion and economic growth.
They explained that the Eket Sports Academy, located at Afia Nsit community, Eket Local Government Area, is designed to equipped with Olympic-standard pitches, multipurpose courts, modern classrooms, hostels, and health and performance laboratories.
“The facility, will provide structured training in sports, academics, leadership, and entrepreneurship, while partnering with international sports institutions to meet global standards” They stated.
Highlighting key components of the initiative, the aides noted that the academy will discover and nurture young talents, both male and female from across the 31 local government areas, offering them scholarships and professional opportunities.They maintained that the project will also stimulate job creation, tourism, and small business growth, while positioning Akwa Ibom as a regional hub for sports excellence in West Africa.
Mr. Bassey and Comrade Edoho further applauded Governor Umo Eno for his inclusive governance style and unwavering commitment to youth development.
“We are deeply grateful to the Governor and commend him for the Eket Sports Academy project, which perfectly aligns with his ARISE Agenda development blueprint. Through this initiative, Governor Eno is not merely building athletes, but nurturing a generation of skilled, disciplined, and globally competitive young citizens who are driving Akwa Ibom’s economic transformation,” they stated.
They called for continued support for the Governor to enable him to further expand development across the state, while assuring that his administration remains committed to building a more progressive and peaceful Akwa Ibom.