Excitement builds as Udeme Otong Unity Cup kicks off in Abak
The tournament, which began on Sunday at the Annang People's School playing field in Utu Abak, marked the beginning of a seven-week football championship featuring teams from the 12 wards of the Abak state constituency.
In a drive to promote sports participation across Abak State Constituency, the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Udeme Otong, has officially unveiled the inaugural Udeme Otong Inter-Ward Football Competition 2025, also known as the Speaker’s Unity Cup, in Abak.
The tournament, which began on Sunday at the Annang People’s School playing field in Utu Abak, marked the beginning of a seven-week football championship featuring teams from the 12 wards of the Abak state constituency.
In the opening match, Abak Urban Ward I secured a 2–1 victory against Abak Urban Ward II. Christopher Noah from Ward I scored the first goal, followed by Akaninyene Jimbo, who netted the second goal in the second half. Iniso Peters managed to score a penalty for Ward II in the 35th minute of the second half.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Speaker Otong, flanked by his wife, Deaconess Margaret Otong, highlighted the significance of youth development as a vital element for community advancement, announcing his commitment to making the tournament an annual event.
“Youth development is a priority for me because I believe that empowered youths are the foundation for a thriving community. This competition is not just about football; it’s about uniting our communities, nurturing talents, and creating opportunities for our young people,” he stated.
He expressed gratitude to his colleagues in the state house of assembly for their support and encouraged the youth to see the tournament as a chance to showcase their skills and embrace sportsmanship.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee ( LOC ) Mr. Emmanuel Idio, thanked the Speaker for entrusting his committee with the responsibility of organising the competition.
He acknowledged with delight the collective efforts and team spirit of the LOC members and commended the participating teams for their readiness and enthusiasm.
Goodwill messages were delivered at the opening ceremony by various dignitaries, including the Leader of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt.Hon. Otobong Bob; Mr. Nkereuwem Ebong of the South South Development Commission, Commissioner for Sports Elder. Paul Bassey, Abak local government Chairman, Hon. Ime Effiong Charles, and Commissioner for Information Elder. Aniekan Umanah, among others.
Other lawmakers present included, the Chief Whip, AKHA,Rt. Hon. Effiong Johnson, Deputy Leader, Hon. Nsidibe Akata, Rt. Hon. Mfon Idung (Etim Ekpo/Ika), Hon. Emem Udom (Ukanafun), Hon. Prince Ukpong Akpabio (Essien Udim), Hon. Precious Selong (Urue Offiong Oruko), Hon. Aniefiok Attah (Nsit Atai), Rt. Hon.Asuquo Udo (Ikono), Hon.Bassey Pius Bassey (Okobo), Hon.Uwem Peter Imo-Ita (Mkpat Enin), Hon.Eric Akpan (Nsit Ibom), Uwemedimo Asuquo (Uyo), Hon.Udobia Friday Udo (Esit Eket/Ibeno), Lawrence Udoide (Ini), Hon. Moses Essien (Ibiono Ibom), and Hon. Itorobong Etim (Uruan).
Other notable attendees included the MD of Akwa Ibom Property Investment Company (APICO), Barr. Patrick Udomfang, former Abak lawmaker Comrade Friday Iwok, former Abak Chairman, Apostle Ekerette Inyang, Paramount Ruler of Abak; Okuku Saviour Sylvester Udofia, Chairman of Essien Udim LGA, Elder Ntiedo Usoro, and the Chairman of Abak LGA, Hon. Ime Effiong Charles, Provost, College of Medical Laboratory, Jos, Prof. Nkereuwem Etukudoh, among others.
The football competition continues today between Otoro Ward 3 and Abak Urban ward 5, Wednesday and Friday this week. The overall winner of the tournament will receive a prize of at least N2 million, while the second, third, and fourth place teams will be awarded N1.5 million, N1 million, and N500,000 respectively, in addition to consolation prizes for all participating teams and players.
•Photos of the competition
