Akwa Ibom duo qualify for 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow

Posted : 30 May 2026

Akwa Ibom State has secured representation in judo at the 2026 Commonwealth Games after two of its athletes, Enku Ekuta and Immaculata Ufot, earned qualification through outstanding performances at the Commonwealth Trials held in Abuja.

The trials, organised by the Nigeria Judo Federation at the MKO Abiola National Stadium, saw athletes from across the country compete for places at the Games scheduled to take place later this year in Glasgow, Scotland.

Ekuta booked her ticket in the women's -63kg category, while Ufot qualified in the women's -57kg division after both judokas delivered podium-finishing performances.

On their return to Uyo, the athletes and their coaches were received by officials of the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Sports, where their achievement was celebrated as another milestone in the state's growing sporting success.

Presenting the athletes to the Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, coaches Kachi David and Adesuji Adebiyi highlighted the hard work and commitment that culminated in the qualification feat.

Bassey congratulated the judokas for flying the state's flag high and reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting athletes across various sports.

According to him, the qualification of the two athletes reflects the steady progress being made in Akwa Ibom sports, particularly in disciplines that have consistently delivered medals at national competitions.

He also credited Governor Umo Eno for creating an enabling environment for sports development through sustained investment in facilities, equipment, and athlete welfare.

"The results we are seeing today are products of deliberate policies aimed at developing sports in the state. Our athletes are responding positively, and we expect even greater achievements in the future," Bassey said.

The Commissioner noted that initiatives such as the establishment of a stand-alone sports ministry, regular competitions, and athlete reward systems have continued to inspire improved performances.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports, Mrs Rosemary Ubia, described the state's judo athletes as dependable medal prospects, expressing confidence in their ability to excel on bigger stages.

She assured the athletes of continued support as they intensify preparations for the Commonwealth Games.

Responding on behalf of the athletes, Ufot thanked Governor Eno and the Ministry of Sports for their unwavering support, promising that the team would remain committed to winning more honours for both Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria.

Among officials present at the reception were the Director of Sports, Mrs Brigid Otton, and the Director of Coaching and Technical Unit, Coach Catherine Ekuta.

The successful qualification of these elite judokas underscores the effectiveness of structured sports grassroots development within the region. With the global showpiece in Glasgow approaching, the entire state looks forward to seeing its representatives challenge for podium success on the international stage. The administration remains dedicated to empowering its athletes as they transition into the final phases of international preparation.

Akwa Ibom duo qualify for 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow

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