Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area is fully prepared to make a bold statement at the upcoming 2025 Akwa Ibom State Sports Festival, as Chairman Hon. Aniefiok Nkom has declared the area’s readiness and unveiled plans to motivate athletes for optimal performance.

Speaking to athletes and officials at the Ikot Ekpene Stadium on Wednesday, Hon. Nkom assured that his administration has made strategic preparations to support the local government’s contingent. He emphasized that the welfare of athletes is a top priority and pledged to encourage the athletes throughout the competition.

“Let me begin by congratulating our dear Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for approving the hosting of the State Sports Festival this year. This is certainly one of the many ways this administration is supporting youth development through sports, as captured in the Arise Agenda.

The chairman also acknowledged the Honourable Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, for his efforts in mobilizing stakeholders from across the state for the festival, expressing confidence in Ikot Ekpene’s ability to rise to the occasion.

“We in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area are ready, and we won’t take this opportunity for granted. We have put things in place to ensure our athletes are in good spirits and motivated to go all out for top prizes in every event,” he said.

He further disclosed that the Supervisor for Sports and his team have been mandated to ensure all athletes receive the support they need, adding that the local government is focused on presenting a formidable team.

Over 300 athletes have registered with the Ikot Ekpene sports team and are currently undergoing screening to select the best talents who will fly the area’s flag at the festival.

The 2025 Akwa Ibom State Sports Festival is scheduled to hold from September 8 to 13, 2025, with events taking place at various.