No Room For Complacency, Paul Bassey Urges Akwa Utd To Maintain Momentum For Top NPFL Return

As Akwa United Football Club (AUFC) of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, continues its strategic overhaul, Sports Commissioner Elder Paul Bassey has urged the team to be fully prepared for the second half of the Nigeria National League (NNL). He reminded the players that this concluding phase is pivotal to their qualification for the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL).

Bassey charged the team to remain focused and disciplined as they intensify preparations for the second round of the 2025/2026 NNL season.

The Commissioner delivered his address during a visit to the club’s training session at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium (Nest of Champions), Uyo, as part of the team’s mid-season assessment programme.

Akwa United, who were relegated from the top flight last season due to poor form, currently sit atop Conference B of the Nigeria National League after the first round of fixtures. They have accumulated 19 points from nine matches, establishing a two-point lead over Sporting Lagos.

Elder Bassey commended the players, technical crew, and management for their impressive showing in the first half of the campaign, but urged them to do more to sustain the tempo. He warned against complacency, noting that the second round of the league would be more competitive and demanding.

As a morale booster, Commissioner Bassey reaffirmed the State Government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the club secures promotion back to the NPFL at the end of the season.

“I congratulate the management, technical crew and players for your impressive performance in the first round. You have made the state proud. However, the league is played in two halves, and the second round will be tougher. You must remain focused, disciplined and leave nothing to chance. Our Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has given us a clear mandate to ensure that Akwa United returns to the Premier League, and the Ministry of Sports will continue to provide all the necessary support. This is also an opportunity for you to advance your individual careers while bringing glory to Akwa Ibom State.”

As a parting gesture, the Commissioner made a cash donation to the players, reassuring them of continued government backing throughout the remainder of the season.

LEADERSHIP Sports understands that Akwa United, affectionately known as “The Promise Keepers,” will commence their second-round campaign with a home fixture against Rovers of Calabar at the Uyo Township Stadium on Sunday, 15th February 2026.