By Ayomide Otitoju
In a landmark move for sports and private sector collaboration in Akwa Ibom State, Ibom Air has signed a ₦200 million sponsorship agreement with Akwa United Football Club, the 2021 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions and two-time FA Cup winners.
The partnership, announced at a signing ceremony held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, designates Ibom Air as the Official Sponsor of Akwa United FC for an initial two-year term. The sponsorship includes both cash and in-kind contributions, with 50% of the total value provided in kind.
The event drew key stakeholders from the sports community, government officials, and media representatives.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. George Uriesi, Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ibom Air, described the partnership as a reflection of the airline’s ongoing commitment to community development through strategic investments in sports.
“At Ibom Air, our core pillars of support are Health, Community Development, Education, and Sports. Akwa United is a club with a proud championship history, currently rebuilding. Our goal is to support their resurgence and help them return to the top of the league and beyond,” Uriesi said.
He added that the initiative underscores Ibom Air’s belief in the power of sports to inspire young people and strengthen state unity.
Mr. Joseph Eno, Chairman of Akwa United FC, praised Ibom Air’s intervention as timely and strategic.
“This partnership comes at a crucial moment as we rebuild. The backing from Ibom Air boosts the morale of our players and technical team. Wearing the logo of such a reputable brand reminds us that we represent excellence and must deliver at the highest level,” he stated.
In his remarks, Elder Paul Bassey, Commissioner for Sports in Akwa Ibom State, commended the collaboration as a major step in advancing the government’s sports development agenda.
“This partnership fulfills a long-term vision for private sector involvement in sports and aligns with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda. It sets the stage for local sports to compete on a global scale,” he said.
The ceremony also featured the unveiling of Akwa United’s new jersey, the inauguration of working committees, and interactive media sessions.
The deal marks a new chapter for both organisations, with Ibom Air reinforcing its reputation as a socially responsible brand and Akwa United gaining renewed momentum as it seeks to reclaim its position among Nigeria’s football elite.
