THE DIARYGAME: 03-01-202, UKPUM OKON CLAN UNITY FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT: HON. EKEREOBONG UBOM'S TIMELY DONATION OF JERSEYS TO TEAM IKOT UKPONG REINFORCES POWER OF GRASSROOTS SUPPORT AND PURPOSEFUL LEADERSHIP IN FOSTERING COMMUNITY UNITY AND SPORTS DEVELOPMENT

The Ukpum Ọkọn Clan Unity Football Tournament has once again demonstrated the power of grassroots support and purposeful leadership, as Hon. Ekereobong Ubom, Councillor representing Ukpum Ọkọn Ward and Chief Whip, Ikot Abasi 8th Legislative Council, made good his promise by donating a brand-new set of jerseys to Team Ikot Ukpong.

This commendable gesture follows an interactive session held on 29th December 2025, where players of Team Ikot Ukpong, who turned out in large numbers, engaged their Honourable brother - an indigene of Ikot Ukpong/Ekwere Village. During the interaction, the players clearly stated that what they needed most was a set of jerseys and football socks.

In his characteristic magnanimity and responsiveness, Hon. Ekereobong Ubom simply replied, “Consider it done.” True to his word, and to the glory of God, the promise has now been fulfilled. In support of grassroots sports development and community unity, the jerseys were officially dedicated and handed over to the team yesterday- an act widely applauded as timely and impactful.

Speaking on behalf of the team, Comrade Caesar Ime expressed profound gratitude to the donor, describing the gesture as a major morale booster. He assured the Honourable Councillor and the entire Ikot Ukpong/Ekwere community of the team’s determination to bring the trophy home.

In a similar vein, the Team Captain, Aniekpon Isa, also conveyed a heartfelt message of appreciation to Hon. Ekereobong Ubom, whom he described as a true son of Ikot Ukpong/Ekwere Village. He further highlighted the Honourable Councillor’s continuous support, noting that beyond the jerseys, Hon. Ekereobong has consistently motivated the players by attaching reward incentives to every goal scored, thereby encouraging excellence and commitment.

Hon. Ekereobong Ubom, in his charge to the players, urged them to give their very best, stressing that sports should be seen as a serious and rewarding venture with immense benefits, including physical fitness, discipline, unity, and economic opportunity. He also called on sons and daughters of Ukpum Ọkọn to key into grassroots football development as a means of fostering unity and empowering the youth.

The Honourable Councillor used the opportunity to extend special appreciation to his boss and host of the tournament, Hon. Ime Williamson Essien, Executive Chairman of Ikot Abasi LGA, reaffirming his commitment to continuous partnership and timely collaboration with critical stakeholders to ensure a more robust and impactful outing in the 2027 Ukpum Ọkọn Clan Unity Football Tournament.

The Ukpum Ọkọn Clan Unity Football Tournament has become a beacon of hope and unity in the community, bringing together people from different walks of life to celebrate sports, culture, and community spirit. The tournament has also provided a platform for local teams to showcase their talents and compete at a high level.

Once again, thank you, Hon. Ekereobong Ubom, for leading by example and proving that meaningful development truly begins at home. Your commitment to grassroots sports development and community unity is a testament to your dedication to the people of Ukpum Ọkọn Ward.

The Ukpum Ọkọn community is proud of Hon. Ekereobong Ubom’s efforts to promote sports development and unity in the area. His gesture is a reminder that community leaders have a crucial role to play in supporting local initiatives and empowering the youth.

As the tournament progresses, the Ukpum Ọkọn community looks forward to more exciting matches and thrilling encounters. With teams competing at their best, the tournament is sure to bring joy and excitement to the community.

In conclusion, Hon. Ekereobong Ubom’s donation of jerseys to Team Ikot Ukpong is a commendable gesture that reflects his commitment to grassroots sports development and community unity. The Ukpum Ọkọn community appreciates his efforts and looks forward to continued support and collaboration.