Akwa Ibom Judokas Clinch Commonwealth Games Tickets

AFOLABI SAHEED OLAWALE

Two athletes from Akwa Ibom State, Enku Ekuta and Immaculata Ufot, have secured qualification for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow after outstanding performances at the Commonwealth Judo Trials organized by the Nigeria Judo Federation in Abuja.

The athletes returned home to a warm reception from the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Sports following the trials held at the MKO Abiola National Stadium, where they earned qualification in their respective categories.

Enku Ekuta qualified in the women’s -63kg division, while Immaculata Ufot booked her place in the women’s -57kg category after impressive podium finishes at the competition.

The successful judokas were presented to the Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, by the state judo team, accompanied by coaches Kachi David and Adesuji Adebiyi, during a reception at the Ministry of Sports headquarters.

Commending the athletes, Bassey described their achievement as another milestone in Akwa Ibom State’s growing sporting success story. He noted that the qualification came on the heels of recent accomplishments recorded by the state’s athletes in weightlifting and athletics.

According to the Commissioner, the judokas have once again demonstrated commitment, discipline and determination, while further enhancing the reputation of both Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria on the national stage. He added that judo remains one of the state’s most dependable sports in major competitions.

Bassey also expressed gratitude to Governor Umo Eno for his continued support for sports development.

“I will never be tired of appreciating our sports-friendly Governor for all the successes we are receiving so far,” he said.

“The creation of a stand-alone sports ministry, the organization of the state sports festival, and the provision of equipment across various sports have begun to yield remarkable results.”

He further noted that the state’s athlete reward system has continued to inspire competitors to pursue excellence, stressing that sustained investment in sports is producing positive outcomes across multiple disciplines.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports, Mrs. Rosemary Ubia, described the Akwa Ibom judo team as a “gold-winning team,” saying their achievements at the trials justified the government’s commitment to sports development.

She congratulated the athletes on their success and assured them of the Ministry’s support as they prepare for future national and international engagements.

Speaking on behalf of the athletes, Immaculata Ufot thanked Governor Umo Eno for his unwavering encouragement and support, noting that the government’s commitment has motivated athletes to strive for greater success and bring more honors to Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria.

Also present at the reception were the Director of Sports, Mrs. Brigid Otton, and the Director of Coaching and Technical Unit, Coach Catherine Ekuta.