Eno Nominated for Nigeria’s Football-Friendly Governor of the Year Award

Akwa Ibom State governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has been nominated for Pitch Award as Nigeria’s Football-Friendly Governor of the Year 2025, in recognition of his administration’s commitment to sports development.

Governor Eno who won the 2024 award, was nominated for this year’s award alongside Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos and Dapo Abiodun of Ogun.

The recognition of the governor highlights Akwa Ibom’s growing reputation as a hub for football excellence, hosting national and international matches at the world-class Godswill Akpabio Stadium.

According to the organisers of the annual awards, the 12th edition will hold on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at the Ibis Hotel, Toyin Street, Ikeja, Lagos.

President of the Nigeria Pitch Awards, Dr Shina Philips, said the 12th edition will feature 18 award categories, with some of Nigeria’s leading football personalities and institutions competing for honours.

Ademola Lookman, who won the King of the Pitch award in 2024, will face Fulham defender, Calvin Bassey and Galatasaray striker, Victor Osimhen for this year’s crown.

The Rashidi Yekini Award for Best Striker will also see Lookman and Osimhen battle Nasarawa United’s forward, Anas Yusuf.

In the women’s category, Super Falcons goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, now with Brighton and Hove Albion Women, will compete against AFC Toronto forward ,Esther Okoronkwo and Paris Saint-Germain Feminin star, Rasheedat Ajibade for the Queen of the Pitch award.

Other major categories include goalkeeper, defender, midfielder, team and coach of the year, as well as the Sam Okwaraji Award, Football Pitch of the Year and Football Friendly Governor of the Year.

The nominees for Team of the Year are Remo Stars, Rivers United and the Super Falcons, while Daniel Ogunmodede, Finidi George and Justin Madugu are in contention for Coach of the Year.