By Akila Matawal
When Governor Umo Eno sent the list of commissioner nominees to the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly for screening, one name stood out – Elder Paul Bassey.
The inclusion of the veteran sports journalist and accomplished football administrator was greeted with cheers by those who mean well for sports development in Akwa Ibom, and one year down the line after he assumes office, the successes are enormous.
Noteworthy is the fact that Elder Bassey is the pioneer helmsman at the ministry after its separation from the hitherto Ministry of Youth Development and Sports to stand alone. This piece looks at Bassey’s achievements since taking charge on February 24, 2025.
▪️Succesful Hosting of Maiden Niger Delta Games
Elder Paul Bassey’s inauguration coincided with the preparation for the maiden edition of the Niger Delta Games which Akwa Ibom got the rights to host.
In his usual fashion of showing commitment to grassroots development, Bassey was completely immersed in the preparation phase. His presence at every strategy meeting, supervision of facilities, renovation of facilities and other activities all contributed to a historic and successful championship. As if that was not enough, he set up a committee to review Akwa Ibom’s performance towards fixing loopholes and doing better in subsequent competitions.
▪️Revival of Akwa Ibom Sports Festival
Once a hub for talent discovery, the Akwa Ibom Sports Festival went silent for seven years and the commissioner’s immediate response was to revive the programme – a decision that has brought back hope to the sector in the state.
The championship made a comeback in the last quarter of 2025 and it was one of the best of such events ever to be staged. New talents were announced to the world and they are already making their marks within and outside the state.
▪️Reward for State’s Medalists at National Youth Games
Motivation for athletes has been a neglected area in Akwa Ibom and Elder Paul Bassey took decisive steps to change the narrative.
Upon return from the National Youth Games, medalists got rewarded for their achievements and were reassured of the state’s commitment to their welfare. This is another plus for the Paul Bassey – led ministry.
▪️Construction and Launch of “Ibom Gym”
In what has been described as a smart move, Elder Bassey spearheaded the construction and launch of the Ibom Gym at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
Declaring the facility open, Engineer Uwem Okoko, the Chief Executive Officer of indigenous construction company, Hensek Integrated Services, joined other guests to celebrate the vision and motive behind the project.
The new facility, launched in January 2026, is critical to athletes’ training, preparation for competitions and will help coaches in getting their athletes in shape if properly utilised.
▪️Purchase of Sports Equipment
Simultaneously with the launch of the Ibom Gym was the unveiling of sports equipment for use by the over 40 sports associations in Akwa Ibom State. Basketball, volleyball, handball, tennis, table tennis, badminton, track and field, chess, scrabble, judo, taekwondo, boxing and many other sports have all been equipped as a result of this singular step.
In his remarks during the unveiling, Paul Bassey eulogised Governor Umo Eno for keeping to his promise by releasing funds for the project which cost quite a lot – with some of the equipment imported from countries with the highest quality.
▪️Improved finish at Niger Delta Games
After hosting the first edition, the sports ministry in Akwa Ibom was determined to do better in the second edition and the fruits of the post assessment process and the discoveries of the Akwa Ibom Sports Festival made this ambition possible.
Amassing 55 medals made up of 16 gold, 17 silver and 22 bronze medals, Team Akwa Ibom finished fourth overall behind powerhouses Edo Delta and Bayelsa – a big step forward.
▪️Training of Staff for Improved Performance
As one who desires excellence in all he does, Elder Paul Bassey led his ministry to organise and successfully execute a three-day in-house training course for staff members. The gains are huge and are definitely worth the price.
Impressed by the sports ministry’s training programme, the Head of Service, Mrs Elsie Anietie Peters spoke glowingly of Elder Paul Bassey and his team for setting the pace.
▪️Akwa United/Ibom Air Partnership
The marriage of Akwa United and Ibom Airlines Limited is another success story for sports in Akwa Ibom over the last one year.
Central to this sponsorship deal is Elder Paul Bassey. His guidance, push and leadership gave birth to the agreement. The deal has brought relief to the Promise Keepers with seamless flights to and from far distances, improved fan experience during home games and more funds for the running of the club. A top spot in Conference B at the moment and a hopeful return to the Nigeria Premier Football League are products of this partnership.
▪️Launch of Radio Show
In a bid to promote grassroots sports development, report happenings in the ministry and keep the public informed about sports events in Akwa Ibom, “Kickoff Akwa Ibom” has been launched. The radio show airs on Inspiration 105.9 FM every Wednesday from 1pm to 1:30pm with a repeat every Saturday from 6:30pm to 7:00pm.
Conclusively, the sports sector in Akwa Ibom has witnessed a turnaround and it is safe to say that Elder Paul Bassey is a square peg in a square hole. Obviously, better days are ahead, as the Akwa Ibom State Government is already taking further steps. Soon, a range of sports facilities will be unveiled at the ARISE Resort in Uyo while the Ibom Sports Academy is set to get the needed attention for its actualisation in a few years.