ITU-The Chairman of Itu Local Government Area has received indigenous athletes who represented Nigeria at the just-concluded 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, praising their remarkable performances and the honour they have brought to Itu, Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria.
The reception took place at the Itu Local Government Council Secretariat, Mbak Atai Itam ,where the chairman, Hon. Ubong Nkutt commended the athletes for their discipline, determination and commitment to excellence.
All the athletes received were members of the Itu team that emerged overall champions at the maiden Akwa Ibom State Sports Festival in 2025.
At Glasgow 2026, Edidiong Umoafia clinched gold in the men’s weightlifting event, Ruth Nyong won silver in women’s weightlifting, while Enku Ekuta secured bronze in judo.
Nigeria finished the Games as Africa’s highest-ranked nation with 24 medals, 10 gold, seven silver and seven bronze.
Receiving the athletes , Nkutt described their visit as an honour, commending their discipline, determination and commitment to excellence.
He assured the athletes that the Council would continue to support sports development and talent discovery, stressing that sports contribute not only to excellence but also to wellness and youth development.
He congratulated them on their successful outing and expressed his commitment to ensuring that Itu continues to produce athletes capable of competing at the highest level.
The Chairman also praised Governor Umo Eno for his commitment to youth development and sports in Akwa Ibom, assuring that Itu would continue to key into the Governor’s vision of promoting excellence among young people.
As a token of appreciation, the chairman presented a package to the athletes and promised further support for them and other members of the Itu sporting team.
Responding, the athletes thanked the Chairman for his sustained investment in their careers, noting that his support continued even after the victory of Itu at the state sports festival, adding that his assistance with training and preparation had strengthened their confidence and encouraged them to pursue greater achievements.
In a symbolic gesture of appreciation, the athletes presented their medals to the chairman, while volleyball player Iniabasi Emmanuel presented his jersey to him.
The athletes were accompanied by some members of their coaching crew, while Council officials who joined the reception included the Council Secretary, Mr. Imoh Okon; Head of Local Government Service, Mr. Dominic Utin; Councillor representing East Itam Ward 6, Hon. Richard Mbuk; Supervisor for Youths and Sports, Mr. Aniekan Essah; and Chief of Staff to the Chairman, Hon. George Akpan.