Akwa Ibom State Government Receives Land for New Sports Academy
Akwa Ibom State has taken a major step towards youth and sports development as Eket Local Government Area officially handed over land to the state government for the construction of the ARISE Sports Academy.
The land was presented by the Executive Chairman of Eket LGA, Mr Akaniyene Tommey, during a special ceremony attended by government officials, community leaders, and stakeholders.
Speaking at the event as reported by Journalist Solomon Okpo, Mr Tommey described the handover as a “historic moment” and a big step forward in creating opportunities for young people across Akwa Ibom.
“The decision to build the ARISE Sports Academy in Eket shows the government’s strong commitment to the future of our youth,” he said. “This project will help turn the energy and talents of our young boys and girls into something positive—both for Nigeria and the world.”
He noted that Eket has produced many talented athletes in sports like football and basketball and said the academy would finally give them the training and facilities they deserve. The academy will help discover and develop talents and give them chances to succeed internationally.
Mr Tommey also remembered the efforts of past leaders, especially Chief Samuel Atang, who started the Eket Sports Stadium, and former Governor Udom Emmanuel, who upgraded it to international standards.
He praised Governor Umo Bassey Eno and thanked him for appointing Mr Paul Bassey, a proud son of Eket, as Commissioner for Sports.
The Eket Chairman used the occasion to ask for two important upgrades to the Eket Sports Stadium: a perimeter fence and an electricity transformer, which he said were needed for safety and better use of the facility.
Mr Tommey also thanked the local community for supporting the project, calling their cooperation “key to success.” He said, “By giving this land, we are giving hope. Hope to the boy who dreams of being the next Victor Osimhen, and to the girl who wants to run like Tobi Amusan.”
He ended by promising full support from the local government and a peaceful environment to help the sports academy succeed.
“This is just the beginning,” Mr Tommey said. “What starts here in Eket will grow to benefit Akwa Ibom, Nigeria, and the world.”
