Midfielder Paulinus Okon has pledged to raise his performance levels even further as Akwa United FC intensifies their push for a return to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
Okon made the promise after delivering a Man-of-the-Match display, scoring twice in Akwa United’s 2–0 victory over First Bank FC in a Matchday 12 fixture of the Nigeria National League at the Uyo Township Stadium on Sunday, March 1.
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The University of Uyo First Class graduate expressed satisfaction at seeing his efforts translate into tangible results.
“I feel grateful. The hard work, the mentality, the efforts — today you can see the result. It has paid off,” Okon said after the match.
He also reserved special praise for head coach Paul Offor, crediting him for his development since joining the club.
“I want to thank Coach Paul Offor for continuously pushing me. I was not like this when I came to Akwa United, but he has been telling me to do more and today it’s showing.”
Despite operating from midfield, Okon has emerged as Akwa United’s leading scorer this season with four goals. After opening his account against First Bank in Lagos in December and adding another strike against Stormers in January, he once again proved decisive with a brace in Sunday’s encounter.
“I want to score as many goals as possible to ensure this team succeeds. I am ready to do whatever is legitimate — the effort in training and off it, I want to put in more to ensure Akwa United returns to the NPFL,” he stated.
Off the pitch, Okon’s story is equally inspiring. Balancing football with academics, he graduated with a First Class degree in Agriculture and Biosystems Engineering.
“Nothing on earth is impossible as long as you put your mind to it,” he said. “I wanted to succeed in football and also in my education. Thanks be to God, I achieved both.”
It was a memorable afternoon for the midfielder, as his mother and siblings were present to witness his heroics and later joined him on the pitch to celebrate.
The victory extended Akwa United’s lead at the top of Conference B to four points. The Promise Keepers now turn their attention to a crucial away fixture against Osun United FC as they continue their determined march toward promotion.
