National 800m Champion Comfort James Thanks Gov Umo Eno for New Sports Equipment
Commendations have continued to trail the unveiling of modern sports equipment and the Ibom Gymnasium by the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Sports, with top athletes hailing the development as a major turning point for sports in the state.
The latest praise came from National Women’s 800 metres champion, Comfort James, who described the new facilities as timely and transformational for athletes’ growth and performance.
In a message sent to the Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, Comfort expressed deep gratitude to Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for investing in world-class training equipment and a fully equipped gymnasium for athletes.
She noted that the provision of modern facilities would greatly improve preparation and reduce the challenges athletes previously faced due to poor training conditions.
“I wish to express my sincere appreciation to the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, for this wonderful encouragement and support he has given to Akwa Ibom athletes through the provision of modern sports equipment and a gymnasium. I am really excited that we now have modern facilities to train and properly prepare for competitions,” she said.
Comfort James, who set a new national 800m record of 2:04.05 at the 2025 National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, said the project shows the governor’s strong commitment to sports development in the state.
She also applauded the Sports Commissioner, Elder Paul Bassey, for his role in ensuring the successful completion of the project.
“Sir, I want to thank you because I know this may not have been possible without your contribution. I am particularly grateful that this is happening during your tenure as Commissioner for Sports,” she added.
The national champion recalled that athletes previously struggled to train effectively due to the absence of proper equipment, describing it as a major setback to performance and progress.
“With these facilities now available, I am confident they will greatly improve our development and performances at both national and international levels,” she said.
Comfort, who won the women’s 800m title at both the 2025 Nigerian Athletics Championships and the National Sports Festival, urged athletes in Akwa Ibom to make responsible and effective use of the new equipment.
She encouraged them to remain focused, disciplined and committed, stressing that proper use of the facilities would help them bring more glory to the state in future competitions.
