Post-Festival Retreat: How Akwa Ibom Is Shaping the Future of Sports
Akwa Ibom State is taking steps to improve the future of sports in the state, following its performance at the recently concluded 2024 National Sports Festival held in Ogun State. The state finished in 10th place on the official medals table, securing a total of 43 medals.
As part of its strategy to build on this performance, the Ministry of Sports organised a two-day retreat at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. The retreat brought together key figures in the state’s sports sector, including coaches, secretaries of sports associations, directors, and the Permanent Secretary, Mrs Rosemary Ubia.
Speaking at the retreat, the Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, stressed the need to review the welfare of athletes and improve preparations for future events. He acknowledged that although the state won medals, there is still much room for improvement.
“Our performance at the just concluded festival has given us great hope that we can do better with adequate preparations and internal competitions.” Bassey said. “We will also have to provide modern equipments and facilities to the different sports associations to ensure they put up an improved performance in future competitions.”
Elder Bassey announced plans for an enhanced monthly welfare package for all performing athletes. He explained that this support is not just about rewarding effort, but also helping athletes maintain their health and fitness.
The Commissioner said: “We need to review the welfare package of all performing athletes and make sure that they receive enough money that will help them take care of their health and maintain their fitness level. “
Going further, Bassey said that he believes that with improved welfare and better infrastructure, Akwa Ibom can achieve higher rankings in national and international competitions.
The retreat served as a platform to assess current challenges, plan improvements, and inspire a stronger sports system in the state. The government’s commitment to supporting its athletes is seen as a key step towards building a more competitive and successful future in sports for Akwa Ibom.
