Umo Eno Rewards Akwa Ibom Athletes with ₦50 Million

Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has approved ₦50 million in cash rewards for athletes, coaches, and officials in recognition of the state's performance at the second Niger Delta Games held in Benin City, Edo State. The rewards were presented on Tuesday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

The Commissioner for Sports, Paul Bassey, represented the governor at the ceremony and stated that the incentives were a result of the contingent's improved performance due to government investments in sports development. Bassey noted that all athletes who won medals received cash incentives directly into their bank accounts.

Gold medal winners received ₦500,000, silver medallists ₦250,000, and bronze medallists ₦150,000. Notable beneficiaries included weightlifter Samuel Sampson, who earned ₦1.5 million for three gold medals.

The governor also extended rewards to non-medal-winning athletes and coaches, emphasizing the government's commitment to supporting all athletes.