Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has received a fresh nomination for the prestigious Nigeria Pitch Awards, earning a nod for the Football-Friendly Governor of the Year 2025.
Having secured the same accolade in 2024, Governor Eno finds himself nominated alongside prominent state leaders, including Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos and his Ogun State counterpart, Dapo Abiodun.
Organisers of the annual event announced that the 12th edition of the Nigeria Pitch Awards will take place on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, in Ikeja, Lagos, with 18 competitive categories of awards honouring leading football personalities, institutions, and state executives who have significantly contributed to the sport.
Governor Eno’s nomination underscores Akwa Ibom’s enduring status as a primary hub for football excellence in the country, largely driven by the frequent hosting of high-profile national and international fixtures at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
His administration’s ongoing investment in sports infrastructure and youth development continues to set a benchmark for sports administration nationwide.
Beyond the gubernatorial category, the upcoming awards promise fierce competition across multiple fronts.
The Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, has been shortlisted for the Football Pitch of the Year award, alongside the M.K.O. Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta, Ogun State, and the Remo Stars Stadium in Remo, Ogun State.
The Nest of Champions remains the home ground of the Super Eagles, Nigeria’s senior men’s national team, and has hosted several major international matches.
In other categories, star forward, Ademola Lookman, aims to defend his crown against Victor Osimhen and Calvin Bassey for the coveted King of the Pitch award, while Chiamaka Nnadozie, Esther Okoronkwo, and Rasheedat Ajibade battle for the Queen of the Pitch honour.
