By Uko Okon
The Akwa Ibom State Government has disbursed the sum of ₦20 million to the overall winners of the Governor’s Cup football competition.
Ikot Abasi FC, the overall winners of the tournament, received ₦10 million. Uyo FC, which finished in second place, got ₦6 million, while Urefong Uruko, the third-place team, was awarded ₦4 million.
The football tournament, which began in 2023, concluded on March 28, 2024, at the Uyo Township Stadium and featured teams from all 31 local government areas of the state. In the final, Ikot Abasi FC defeated Uyo FC 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation time, while Urefong Uruko secured third place.
The State Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, made the disbursement on Tuesday at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
Bassey expressed satisfaction with the tournament, describing it as one of the most exciting football finals in recent memory. He noted that although Uyo FC were the favorites to win, Ikot Abasi FC delivered a surprising performance to clinch the championship.
He emphasized that the tournament brought out the best in all participating teams and commended the organizers for discovering young talents, many of whom are now playing for clubs in Akwa Ibom and neighbouring states.
“The Governor’s Cup final was one of the best football finals I have watched,” Bassey said. “From the beginning to the end, the atmosphere was electric, and we received massive support from the local government chairmen. Uyo was expected to win, but football, being unpredictable, saw Ikot Abasi emerge champions. This is an event we definitely want to repeat, and I thank the organisers for unearthing new talents through it.”
He also applauded Governor Umo Eno for reviving the competition after years of inactivity and assured that the tournament would continue with further improvements.
The Commissioner thanked the players for their exceptional performance and the local government chairmen for their commitment and support.
In his reaction, Uyo FC captain, Nsikak Sylvanus, praised Governor Eno for fulfilling his promise, noting that such rewards would inspire other young people to give their best in future competitions.
Chairman of Ikot Abasi LGA, Ime Essien, also expressed gratitude to the state government for increasing the prize money for each winner and expressed optimism that the next tournament would be even more competitive.
