NNL: Paulinus, Akano on Target as Akwa United Sink Stormers in Uyo
Akwa United began the 2026 on a strong note with a comfortable 2–0 win over Abeokuta Stormers in their Matchday 8 Nigeria National League (NNL) clash on Sunday at the Uyo Township Stadium.
Goals from substitute Paulinus Okon and defender Adio Akano secured the Promise Keepers’ fifth victory of the season, lifting coach Paul Offor’s side to 16 points in Southern Conference B. Akwa United are level on points with Sporting Lagos but remain second on the standings due to an inferior goal difference.
The hosts named an unchanged starting line-up from the team that defeated First Bank in Lagos on Matchday 7. However, they were forced into an early change when midfielder Ndifreke Etim picked up an injury and was replaced by forward Paulinus Okon midway through the first half.
The change paid off as Okon, making his first home appearance of the season, gave Akwa United the lead in first-half added time. He powered in a header from Yannick Menegbe’s cross to put the home side ahead.
Akwa United stepped up the tempo after the interval, with coach Offor bringing on Ubong Essien, Etim Charles and Michael Okenwa. The hosts controlled the second half and created several chances, but efforts from Rasheed Quadus, Daniel Gothom, Menegbe and Okenwa failed to hit the target.
The second goal arrived in the 84th minute. Menegbe was brought down just outside the box and took the resulting free kick, curling his effort onto the crossbar after a save from the Stormers goalkeeper. Adio Akano reacted fastest to fire home the rebound and seal the win.
The result extended Akwa United’s unbeaten run at home to five matches, with four wins and one draw.
After the game, head coach Paul Offor praised his players for their commitment and discipline.
“It was not an easy match, but the players showed great character and focus. Paulinus made a big impact again, and we kept believing until Adio finished it off. This victory gives us confidence to push for more wins. We will continue to work hard and stay focused on what lies ahead,” Offor said.
Akwa United will be on the road this weekend when they face Rovers FC in Calabar on Matchday 9, their final game before the mid-season break.
