Akwa Ibom State commissioner for sports, Etobom Paul Bassey has unfolded a plan that will help the government ‘define the future of sports’ and help them reclaim their reputation as a breeding ground for sporting excellence.
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Sports247 reports that the former editor, publisher and broadcaster stressed ‘future glory’ as a premium target, while unveiling an 11-member committee for the ministry’s new Grassroots Sports Development Initiative (GSDI).
Bassey enthused that the committee will further boost the push to rebuild Akwa Ibom State’s sports development from schools and communities, where hidden talents will be discovered in collaboration with various relevant ministries.
He added that the move aligns with Governor Umo Eno’s directive to revive grassroots competitions, particularly within the school system, while involving the Ministries of Sports, Education and Youth Development.
The commissioner noted further that, while individual efforts have yielded modest gains, a unified strategy is critical to unlocking sporting potential, sequel to a charge that was first delivered during the 2025 Akwa Ibom State Sports Festival.
The charge has gained tangible momentum through a structured framework that is now in motion, with a strong focus on inclusivity, while engaging schools, community-based clubs, women, persons with disabilities and health workers.
Director of Sports, Mrs. Brigidi Otton is the committee’s chairperson, in a structure that brings together stakeholders, coaching experts, education administrators, youth development officers and school sports coordinators.
“This is not just another committee; it is a strategic intervention that will define the future of sports in Akwa Ibom. The classroom remains the bedrock of sustainable sports development,” Bassey said, while stressing an urgent need of returning to basics.
He also noted the need to reignite a competitive school sports culture, notably with the revival of inter-house sports competitions as well as introduction of football competitions among students in primary and secondary schools.
