Saturday February 8, 2025 | TheNewsDESK
The Akwa Ibom State Football Association (AKSFA) has thanked the Akwa Ibom Governor Pastor Umo Eno (PhD) for redeeming and even doubling the winners’ cash prizes for the 2023 Akwa Ibom State Governor’s Cup tournament.
In a fun-filled evening of entertainment and rewards on Thursday, February 6, 2025, Governor Umo Eno officially presented prizes to the top three teams—Ikot Abasi, Uyo, and Urue Offong Local Government Areas—for their outstanding performances in the tournament.
Ikot Abasi, the 2023 champions, who were originally set to receive five million naira, were instead rewarded with ten million naira. Runners-up Uyo were given six million naira instead of three million, while third-placed Urue Offong received four million naira, double the initial two million naira prize.
Akwa Ibom FA Chairman, Mr Samuel Umoh, commended the governor for his unwavering support for football and his generosity in increasing the prize money.
Speaking after the event, Akwa Ibom FA Chairman Mr Samuel Umoh expressed gratitude to the governor, stating:
“This is a great moment for football in Akwa Ibom. Governor Umo Eno (PhD) has not only kept his promise to the winners but has gone above and beyond by doubling the cash prizes. His commitment to sports development is commendable, and we deeply appreciate his continued support.”
He further highlighted the success of the 2023 tournament and expressed optimism for an even bigger event this year:
“The 2023 Governor’s Cup brought unity among the 31 participating Local Government Areas and helped discover no fewer than 50 talented players who are now playing for top clubs in the country. With this level of support, we have high hopes for a grand and colourful 2025 edition that will take football in Akwa Ibom to new heights.”
Ikot Abasi were crowned champions after a dramatic final in March 2024, where they defeated Uyo Local Government Area 4-3 on penalties in front of a packed crowd at the Uyo Township Stadium.
