Elder Paul Bassey, the chairman of Akwa United FC and a respected figure in African football administration, has been nominated for a commissioner role in Akwa Ibom State. His name appeared on the shortlist presented to the State House of Assembly on Tuesday, February 11, 2025.
With a strong background in sports management, Bassey is widely expected to head the Ministry of Sports, succeeding former Commissioner Sir Monday Uko.
A veteran sports administrator and journalist, Bassey has played a key role in Nigerian and African football. He was part of Nigeria’s delegation to the 2004 Athens Olympics and received the prestigious CAF Golden Jubilee Award in 2007 for his contributions to football and sports journalism. As the publisher of Todaysports, one of Nigeria’s leading sports newspapers, he has shaped the landscape of sports reporting in the country.
Under his leadership, Akwa United FC achieved major successes, including winning the NPFL Cup in 2021 and securing continental qualifications. His expertise in football administration and his passion for sports development have earned him widespread respect.
Beyond football, Bassey is a devoted elder in the Apostolic Church, further cementing his reputation as a leader with integrity. Many believe his appointment would be a perfect fit, describing him as “a square peg in a square hole” in the world of sports administration.
