By Akanimo Kufre
Over 500 athletes of Akwa Ibom State origin were honoured with cash rewards at the State Banquet Hall, Uyo, on Tuesday, December 16.
The athletes were selected from medal winners at the National Youth Games, Asaba 2025, and 2025 Akwa Ibom State Sports Festival.
Jacintha Lawrence led the cash rewards, receiving N2 million from 4 gold medals. Philip Imo received N1.250 million, while Rosemary Edet got N1 million. Each gold medal was valued at N500,000, silver, N250,000, and bronze at N150,000.
At the local government category, Itu LGA received N15 million as medal table toppers and winners of the Sports Festival. Uyo LGA received N10 million in second place, while Nsit Atai LGA received N5 million as bronze winners.
While individual sports athletes celebrated their cash rewards, some team sports athletes in football and volleyball expressed dissatisfaction, deeming it unjust to receive N500,000 for a football team consisting of about 18 players and two officials.
Speaking to the athletes on life in sports and after sports, guest speaker Segun Odegbami, ex-Super Eagles team captain, advised athletes to view sports beyond trophies and medals. Odegbami stated that sports offer several career opportunities in various fields.
“There’s sport in every field conceivable. Without education to a minimal level, you will end up in the 99% of sportsmen who never make it well after retirement. The age of sports is very short, while life after sports is so long.”
Odegbami learned this lesson early and developed his capacity up to Harvard University. He is now the CEO of a reputable sports institution in Nigeria.
The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Sports Development, Elder Paul Bassey applauded Gov. Umo Eno for instituting the culture of reward to motivate athletes.
“We have not had it like this in every long time. When athletes go out and excel, it is always good to be honoured. It is always good for them to be rewarded. That is the culture we have started in Akwa Ibom. It is a worthwhile adventure. I want to thank the governor sincerely for doing this. “
