‘Godswill Akpabio International Best In Nigeria’

By Patrick Titus, Uyo

Sustained maintenance culture at the Goodwill Akpabio International Stadium, aka Nest of Champions in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State has gained applause and recognition by the organisers of Sportsville Awards.

At the 6th edition of the Sportsville Special Recognition and Awards, held recently at the Lagos Country Club. Godswill Akpabio International Stadium received recognition as the Best Government-Owned Sports Facility in Nigeria.

The recognition came 11 years after its inauguration in 2014, reflecting the Akwa Ibom State Government’s sustained commitment to maintaining the stadium at world-class standards.

The event, chaired by Dr. Larry Izamoje, brought together cream of personalities from across Nigeria’s sports sector, with 20 prominent individuals honoured across seven categories.

The 30,000-capacity stadium in Uyo — Nigeria’s only sports facility certified by both FIFA and CAF — clinched the Best Facility Award in the government category.

Receiving the award on behalf of the state government, Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey — represented by the Director of Facilities at the Ministry of Sports, Mr. Victor Owokure — expressed gratitude to the organizers for recognizing the efforts of successive administrations in maintaining the stadium to international standards.

He commended the leadership of Governor Umo Eno, PhD as well as past administrations under Godswill Akpabio and Udom Emmanuel, for prioritizing the upkeep of the facility.

“It is with great joy and pride that we receive this award on behalf of the Akwa Ibom State Government. We remain grateful to the vision of Senator Godswill Akpabio, who initiated the construction of this world-class stadium in 2014, and to subsequent administrations for ensuring it is maintained to meet international standards.”

He further noted that the stadium has enabled the Super Eagles to host international matches within Nigeria, sparing the country the challenge faced by some African nations forced to play home games abroad.

The stadium has also hosted major continental fixtures, including the CAF Confederation Cup Final 2022, and has served as a home ground for Nigerian clubs such as Enyimba International, Rangers International, Abia Warriors, and Rivers United during their continental campaigns.

Elder Bassey described the award as both an honour and a call to action, urging continued investment in the maintenance of sports infrastructure across the state.

“This recognition challenges us to do even more, not only in maintaining the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium but also in prioritizing the development and upkeep of other sports facilities in Akwa Ibom State,” he added.

Others who were also honoured at the event include the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, who received the Sports Transformative Impact Award, alongside Dr. Christian Emeruwa and Mr. Felix Akiga, who were presented with Achievers Awards. Barrister Isaac Danladi, who is the Attorney-General of Nasarawa State, also received a Special Recognition Award.

The Sportsville Awards, established six years ago, aims to celebrate and honour individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to the growth and development of sports in Nigeria.