The Akwa Ibom State Government has pledged full support to Ibom Angels Football Club ahead of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) season.
The State Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, made this known on Monday when he received officials from African Sports Investor Limited (ASI) — a global, UK-based sports investment firm — who visited Uyo on a facility inspection tour.
Elder Bassey described sports as a key part of Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, adding that the visit by ASI came at the right time in line with the Governor’s plan to develop sports in the state.
“His Excellency, Governor Umo Eno, places great importance on sports development. Ibom Angels, made up of talented and hardworking young women, is a team close to his heart,” he said.
The Commissioner added that Akwa Ibom has become a top destination for sports investment due to the peace, security, and modern facilities the current administration has brought to the state.
The Founder and CEO of ASI, Mrs Abiola Ijasanmi — a former Chief Operating Officer of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) — said their visit was part of a nationwide inspection of top women’s football clubs. The aim, she said, is to raise the standard of the women’s game, improve player welfare, and strengthen the foundation for future growth.
“This is the tenth state we’ve visited, and I must say that Uyo is peaceful, secure, and very welcoming for investment. We are impressed with the facilities and staff here and look forward to working with you in the new season,” Mrs Ijasanmi said.
Earlier, while welcoming the ASI team at the Uyo Township Stadium, the Chairman of Ibom Angels FC, Prince Ukeme Ukpong, expressed optimism that the collaboration with ASI would inspire the team as they target qualification for continental competitions in the coming season.
Prince Ukpong highlighted the club’s strong youth setup, talented senior players, modern camp, and dedicated stadium as key advantages that make Ibom Angels stand out.
The ASI delegation, which included the firm’s Director of Operations, Mrs Andrea Grainger, also held a pep talk with the players and staff before watching the team’s training session. They later toured the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo Township Stadium, and the club’s camp facilities.
With the Prince Ukeme Ukpong-led management committee in place, Ibom Angels are aiming for a stronger performance in the upcoming NWFL season, building on last year’s progress and renewed government backing.