Akwa United have secured a major financial boost ahead of the new season after signing a mouthwatering ₦200 million shirt sponsorship deal with Ibom Air, the biggest in the Nigerian National League (NNL) this campaign.
The two-year agreement, unveiled at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, includes both cash and in-kind contributions, with half of the total value to be delivered in services.
The landmark partnership comes as the 2021 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions prepare for life in the second tier, following their relegation after a disappointing 2024/2025 season.
Akwa United, who were previously sponsored by betting company 1XBet for three seasons, have undergone sweeping changes since their drop.
Akwa United bag mouthwatering ₦200m Ibom Air shirt deal the biggest sponsorship in the Nigerian National League (NNL)
A new management structure has been put in place, with Joseph Eno appointed Chairman and Jimmy Joshua named General Manager, while the club’s former chairman, Elder Paul Bassey who led them to their first NPFL and FA Cup titles now serves as Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Sports.
On the technical front, former Sporting Lagos boss Paul Offor has been brought in to lead the team’s rebuild, with only a few players retained from last season’s squad.
The Promise Keepers have also stepped up their pre-season preparations, drawing 1-1 with Heartland in Owerri before losing 3-0 to Rangers International in Enugu, as they gear up for the start of the 2025/2026 NNL campaign.
Ibom Air Chief Executive Officer, George Uriesi, described the partnership as a commitment to community and sports development.
“At Ibom Air, our core pillars of support are Health, Community Development, Education, and Sports,” Uriesi said. “Akwa United are rebuilding, and we want to be part of their rise back to the top.”
Akwa United bag mouthwatering ₦200m Ibom Air shirt deal the biggest sponsorship in the Nigerian National League (NNL)
Club Chairman, Joseph Eno, said the sponsorship arrives at a crucial moment. “This partnership will not only boost our finances but also lift morale within the club as we fight to return to the NPFL,” he noted.
With a ₦40 million monthly allocation from the Akwa Ibom State Government, the Ibom Air deal is expected to bolster the club’s financial strength and competitiveness this season.
Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, praised the collaboration as a landmark moment. “This partnership fits perfectly into the ARISE Agenda of His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, which encourages private sector involvement in sports,” he said.
