&w=64&q=75)
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has expressed optimism over the potential of the forthcoming Niger Delta Sports Festival to foster regional unity as well as promote sports tourism and ensure talent discovery.
Youths from the Niger Delta region will contest for honour and supremacy at the festival which will take place in Akwa Ibom from Wednesday April 2, 2025.
In a statement signed by Hon. Aniekan Umanah, the State Commissioner for Information, on Tuesday, April 1, Eno promised that the fiesta would be a celebration of athletic excellence and sportsmanship across the Niger Delta Region.
He also applauded the the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and others for their sponsorship, as he welcomed all participants to the state for the week-long event.
ALSO READ: Good times for A'Ibom civil servants as Eno ready to splash over ₦300m for Happy Hour
The Governor said that Akwa Ibom people, famous for their warmth, hospitality and culinary expertise, are not only prepared but also have the requisite infrastructure and facilities to host the festival and give visitors a memorable experience.
The festival, which would feature 3,400 athletes, 560 coaches, 418 officials and 17 sports categories, would take place at venues including the "Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo Township Stadium, Nwaniba Marina, Dakkada Skills Acquisition Centre, Ultra Fit Sports Centre, West Itam Secondary School and Cornelia Connelly College Uyo. It will promote future champions who will represent Nigeria on national and international stages."
Edo added that, "The Government therefore urges citizen and residents to come out and celebrate sportsmanship, unity and excellence. Welcome to Akwa Ibom-the land of promise and home of hospitality and tourism."
ALSO READ: Governor Eno approves ₦80,000 minimum wage for verified civil servants