As part of efforts to rejuvenate sports infrastructure across Akwa Ibom State, the Honourable Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, on Thursday, October 30, 2025, led a delegation from the Ministry of Sports to the Eket Stadium, marking the conclusion of the statewide on-the-spot assessment of sporting facilities directed by Governor Umo Eno.
The inspection of the Eket Stadium followed earlier visits to the Ikot Ekpene Stadium, West Itam Sports Centre, Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo Township Stadium, and the Olympic-sized swimming pool.
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The exercise is part of a comprehensive evaluation initiative aimed at determining the condition of key facilities and identifying priority areas for renovation and upgrade.
Accompanied by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Rosemary Ubia, and several directors from the ministry, Elder Bassey was received by the Stadium Manager, Mr. Samuel Ettentuk, and guided by the Director of Facilities, Mr. Victor Owokure.
The team inspected the pitch, stands, athletics track, changing rooms, and other critical infrastructure, noting areas requiring urgent intervention.
In a gesture that highlighted his compassionate leadership style, Elder Bassey directed the immediate engagement of an ad hoc security staff, Mr. Daniel Sampson, who had reportedly served for over two years without remuneration. The Commissioner commended Mr. Sampson’s dedication and consistent service to the facility.
Addressing athletes training at the stadium, Elder Bassey urged them to remain disciplined, focused, and committed to their craft, emphasizing that sports can provide both personal fulfillment and professional growth.
He also directed the Stadium Manager to compile a comprehensive list of active track and field athletes, including their performance records and training needs, to enable the ministry to extend necessary support for their development and participation in national and international competitions.
Speaking to journalists after the inspection, the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Rosemary Ubia, explained that the exercise was in fulfillment of Governor Umo Eno’s directive to ensure that all sports facilities in the state are functional, well-maintained, and beneficial to young athletes.
She commended the governor’s sports-friendly policies and consistent funding support, particularly during the last Akwa Ibom State Sports Festival.
Mrs. Ubia further noted that a detailed report of the inspection would be compiled and presented to the governor, while also applauding Elder Bassey’s passionate and result-oriented approach to sports administration in the state.
The inspection team included the Director of Sports, Mrs. Brigid Otton; Director of Administration, Mrs. Iniobong Udo; Director of Coaching, Mrs. Catherine Ekuta; Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics, Mrs. Peace Dan; Assistant Director of Administration, Mr. James James; and Assistant Director of Accounts, Mr. Eyakeno Akpan.
