Akwa Ibom state commissioner for youth and sports Sir Monday Ebong Uko told the media in Uyo yesterday that His Excellency Governor Udom Emmanuel has approved the drastic slashing of the gate takings for today’s match to enable a mass turn out of fans to cheer Akawa United to victory.
Akwa United, AITEO Cup defending Champions will start the campaign of doing better than their fourth place last season by going all out against Rangers International at the Godswill Akpabio International stadium.
While the Reserved Area will go for 500 naira, the popular side will be open to the public for 200 naira only.
“ We know it is match of the week, we know it involves two of the biggest teams in the Nigeria professional league today, yet we are inviting Akwa Ibomites and lovers of football in the Neighbour hood to turn out en mass to watch the match for next to nothing”
“ I am appealing to all of us to take advantage of this magnanimity to come out en mass to cheer our darling club to victory” the Commissioner said. Club Chairman Elder Paul Bassey said he believes God for a better outing this season.
“ Last year we lost six points at home through the draws against Rivers United, Rangers International and F.C Ifeanyi Ubah. This year we plan not to lose any point at home by His grace.