Thursday September 10, 2026
www.thenewsdesk.ng
By Mfon PATRICK
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has announced automatic employment into the state civil service for three Akwa Ibom athletes who won medals for Nigeria at the just-concluded 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.
Governor Eno made the announcement on Thursday during the official lighting of the Torch of Unity to mark the commencement of the 2026 Akwa Ibom State Sports Festival at Government House, Uyo. The gesture, according to the Governor, is in recognition of the athletes’ outstanding performances and their contribution to bringing honour and pride to Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria.
The beneficiaries are Edidiong Umoafia, who won a gold medal in weightlifting; Ruth Nyong, who claimed a silver medal in weightlifting; and Enku Ekuta, who won a bronze medal in judo. Governor Eno congratulated the athletes for their hard work, discipline and dedication, describing these qualities as the foundation of their success on the international stage.
The Governor further directed the Commissioner for Sports development Elder Paul Bassey, to make all necessary arrangements for the athletes to be formally rewarded during the opening ceremony of the 2026 Akwa Ibom State Sports Festival scheduled for Tuesday, September 22, 2026. He also directed the Head of the State Civil Service to formalise their employment and ensure that they are posted to the Ministry of Sports development
The gesture underscores Governor Eno’s commitment to rewarding sporting excellence and motivating athletes to reach greater heights. It also reinforces the state government’s drive to use sports as a tool for youth empowerment, talent development and positive representation of Akwa Ibom on the national and international stage.