By James Akpan
In proffering solutions to the development of sports in Akwa Ibom State, it is pertinent to look at sports infrastructure and the benefits to the State.
While commending the State Government for making an impact in football infrastructure (although maintenance culture to these infrastructures is zero) is it is high time attention focused on building infrastructure for other sports in the State.
For example, one might be quick to ask, where is a training center for boxing and other sports.
You would be marveled to see that the condition of the boxers in Akwa Ibom has not improved.
For years now, the boxers had their base at the Akpan Andem market area before moving to Uyo Township Stadium and currently cannot boast of a befitting place for training.
These are the same people who represent Akwa Ibom State in National competitions.
Where is a single swimming pool constructed for swimming purposes?
Can anyone talk satisfactorily about table tennis? Sadly, the game of table tennis has been relegated and abandoned to its fate.
Currently, since the hoodlums have invaded and taken over Uyo township stadium on Udo Umana Street, Akwa Ibom Table tennis has no training facility.
Table tennis in Akwa Ibom is being sustained through the mercy of a few individuals.
Equipment such as table tennis Boards, batons, and others have become a problem.
That sports need a befitting facility that can as well serve as a breeding spot for budding talents.
These are few of the Sports suffering from lack of facilities and this can demotivate them and reduce their morale.
It is true that government cannot achieve everything alone, that is why well-to-do individuals and corporate bodies should step in to assist.
Also read: Governor Emmanuel Reiterates Comment To Invest In Sports Development
How can Akwa Ibom State has an international figure in weightlifting and behold, no training facility for weightlifting in the State?
Having a weightlifting training hub in the State is possible with personalities in Government who are weightlifters past and present.
What would those ones be remembered for?
Being known as stakeholders in the weightlifting sport alone, or being remembered for the value-added mechanism?
Therefore, there is a need for a Sports Village in Akwa Ibom to help address the lack of sporting facilities in the State.
For the record, there are no fewer than 30 sports recognized in the State. These sports deserve their respective facilities to function well and win laurels for the State.
The construction of these sporting facilities would help in the training of sportsmen and women and assist them to create impact in competitions outside the State and country.
