October 24, (THEWILL) — Ibom Air has entered into a N200 million sponsorship agreement with Akwa United Football Club, signalling a shift towards private sector-led funding of sports in Akwa Ibom State.
The agreement, signed at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, makes the state-owned airline the official sponsor of the club for the next two years, with half of the sponsorship provided as services and logistics.
Acting Managing Director of Ibom Air, Mr George Uriesi, said the partnership is part of the airline’s strategy to invest in youth development and community engagement through sports, health and education.
He noted that the new model demonstrates how state-owned enterprises can operate with commercial viability while contributing to social impact.
The chairman of Akwa United FC, Mr Joseph Eno, said the sponsorship arrives as the club restructures for improved performance and financial stability, adding that the new partnership will help restore confidence among players and supporters.
Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, said the deal aligns with the Umo Eno administration’s ARISE Agenda, which seeks increased private investment in sports as government shifts focus to regulation and infrastructure.
At the event, the club’s new jerseys bearing the Ibom Air logo were unveiled, and committees were inaugurated to oversee the implementation of the partnership.
THEWILL reports that Akwa United Football Club, founded in 1997, boasts a Nigeria Premier Football League title and two FA Cup victories, but has struggled to maintain financial strength in recent seasons.
The deal is expected to serve as a template for sustainable funding of other sports institutions in the state.
