Sports generally and football in particular has become big
business that governments at all levels and corporate citizens
globally constantly sponsor sporting events on account of the
benefits that come out of the games. This is hinged on its huge
ability as a public relations vehicle, employment and financial
generator. The provision of proper infrastructure to create the
right environment to tap into the potentials therein is therefore
of importance to corporate citizens who use sports as a means of
branding and advertising their goods and services as well as governments vested with the
mandate to manage the people’s commonwealth.
The Governor of Akwa Ibom State Dr. Godswill Akpabio CON, as a responsible chief executive,
committed to the overall growth and development of his people has, with the approval of the
state legislature, invested huge resources into building a magnificent stadium in the state.
Work on the gigantic project has reached advanced stage.
On assumption of office in 2007 told the people that their lives would never remain the same
hereafter. And so, when Nigeria’s President Goodluck Jonathan GCFR, on 27th October, 2012,
came to the State on a working visit laid the foundation for this edifice. “The promise keeper!”
as Governor Akpabio is fondly called says that building a sports edifice such as the Akwa Ibom
International stadium with multi-faceted facilities like tennis courts, swimming pools,
basketball courts, tartan tracks for track events and others is laying the right foundation
where our youths can nurture their talents and become big stars like Vincent Enyeama, Serena
Williams and David Beckham with winning mentality and enormous earning power. He added
that the country must consolidate on the gains of the Super Eagles that recently won AFCON
2013 top prize, as well as other sports ambassadors who have equally brought honour to
Nigeria. The governor says sports must not be taken lightly as it means ‘unity’ in Niger