Sports Development: Ibom Air, Akwa Utd Sign N200m Pact

By; PATRICK TITUS, Uyo

At a colourful ceremony in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Thursday, Ibom Air and Akwa United Football Club of Uyo have entered into a partnership, noted as a significant milestone for sports and private sector collaboration in the state.

The ceremony which took place at the Conference Room of Godswill Akpabio international Stadium, Uyo, Chief Executive Officer of Ibom Air, Mr George Uriesi signed for the Company while Akwa Utd chairman, Mr Joseph Eno signed for the Club.

Under the agreement, Ibom Air is unveiled as the Official Shirt Sponsor of Akwa United FC. The sponsorship deal, valued at Two Hundred Million Naira (₦200,000,000 ) for an initial two-year term, includes both cash and in-kind contributions, with 50% of the total value provided in kind.

Speaking at the event, Mr. George Uriesi, CEO of Ibom Air, said the partnership was a reflection of the airline’s commitment to supporting the state through impactful community-focused initiatives.

“At Ibom Air, our core pillars of support are Health, Community Development, Education, and Sports. And what better time than now to invest in sports? Akwa United, a club with a proud championship history, is currently rebuilding. Our goal is to support their resurgence, to help them rise again, back to the top of the league and beyond.” Uriesi stated.

He further emphasized that the partnership has demonstrated Ibom Air’s belief in the unifying power of sports to inspire youth and foster state pride.

On his part, Mr. Joseph Eno, Chairman of Akwa United FC, Mr Joseph Eno lauded Ibom Air for its timely support to Akwa Utd.

“This partnership comes at a crucial moment as we rebuild and work to return to our best form. The backing from Ibom Air is both strategic and timely. It will boost the morale of our players and technical team. Wearing the logo of such a reputable brand reminds us that we represent excellence, and we must deliver at the highest level.” Eno acknowledged.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Sports in the State, Elder Paul Bassey, commended the collaboration as a fulfillment of the state’s long-term vision for sports development.

“I am delighted to witness this partnership finally become reality. I have always envisioned a day when Ibom Air and Akwa United would come together in true partnership. This aligns perfectly with the ARISE Agenda of His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, which promotes private sector involvement in sports.

“With this partnership, we are not only supporting our Club but also laying the foundation for local sports to compete with global standards. I am confident this collaboration will bring great success to both Akwa United and Ibom Air”. Sports Commissioner said.

Other highlights of the ceremony were unveiling of Akwa United’s new jersey, the inauguration of key working committees, and interactive sessions with the media.

The ceremony attracted key stakeholders from the sports community, government officials, and the media.

Ibom Airlines Limited is a limited liability company wholly owned by the Akwa Ibom State Government. The airline is committed to providing exceptional service defined by schedule reliability, on-time departures, and excellent customer experience.

Ibom Air operates a fleet of seven Bombardier CRJ 900 aircraft and two Airbus A220-300s, serving seven domestic destinations as well as Accra, Ghana.

Akwa United FC, winners of the 2021 Nigeria Premier Football League and two-time FA Cup champions (2015, 2017), has represented Nigeria in the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup.

Founded as Ibom Stars FC in 1997 and later rebranded as Akwa United FC, the club is owned and funded by the Akwa Ibom State Government and plays its home matches in Uyo.