By Akanimo Kufre
Barely two months after unveiling sports equipment worth over N300 million, the Akwa Ibom State Sports Commissioner, Paul Bassey, revealed the delivery of a customized boxing ring to the delight of athletes and coaches.
The new boxing ring was unveiled on Friday, 10th April 2026, at the Nest of Champions, Uyo, where Paul Bassey also announced that more equipment and indoor sports hall is expected from Gov. Umo Eno’s administration.
“We are not done yet. There’s a lot we need to do. We can fix our swimming pool where majority of medals come from. I believe we need indoor sports hall because over 13 sports practice indoors. I can see the boxing coach is happy but I’m happier.” Paul Bassey said.
Reacting to a question on if these equipment is a preparation to host a major sports event such as the national sports festival, the Commissioner Paul Bassey said “yes but with considerations”.
“Can we host a sports festival? Yes! But what we are getting now is what we need. We need facilities, we need venues to be able to do that. We need to update the swimming pool and have an indoor sports hall to be able to host a sports festival. And we are getting there. Let’s not be in a hurry”
The Boxing Head Coach of Akwa Ibom State, Coach Effiong Asuquo was super excited about the new boxing ring that now replaced a 20-year-old one. He promised to turn our more boxing talents for the state and medals in future competitions.
“I thank God for a good governor and a Commissioner who is ready to work out the governor’s agenda. We are very happy for this new ring. You saw the upcoming boxers in the demonstration bout, they are motivated to win more medals for the state in subsequent competitions.”
After a demonstration bout with Emediong Joseph in the new ring, Nyong Bassey Nyong Jr said there is a different feeling in the ring and it was easier to interpret the coach’s instructions.
Similarly, Emediong who lost out in the last Commonwealth trials in Lagos, promised better performances with the newly acquired ring. Emediong Joseph has won gold medals for Akwa Ibom in Niger Delta Games and bronze in the National Sports Festival.
Members of the sports community who witnessed the unveiling of the new ring with excitement included the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Sports Mrs. Rosemary Ubia, the Nigeria Union of Journalist, (NUJ) Chairman Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Nsibiet Udo John and State FA Chairman, Mr Samuel Umoh.
