The Akwa Ibom State Referees Council has expressed its gratitude to former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong following the donation of officiating kits to the Council through the Troost-Ekong Foundation.
The kits were presented during the grand finale of the Troost-Ekong Foundation Secondary Schools Football Tournament in Uyo on Tuesday, September 1, 2026.
In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Nsikakabasi Akpan, the Akwa Ibom State Referees Council described the donation as a thoughtful gesture and a clear demonstration of Troost-Ekong’s continued commitment to the development of football in Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria.
The Council said it was “deeply grateful” for the support, adding that the donation would further support referees in carrying out their duties professionally.
Speaking after receiving the kits, Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Referees Council, Elder Joseph Bassey, praised the Troost-Ekong Foundation for the donation, describing it as a “thoughtful and valuable gesture”.
He reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to maintaining high standards of officiating and ensuring good and professional officiating in all competitions.
The Council also expressed its appreciation to the Mr Samuel Umoh-led Akwa Ibom State Football Association for its role in building and strengthening the partnership with the Troost-Ekong Foundation.
According to the Council, the partnership is already producing significant results and creating opportunities for the growth of football at different levels.
The appreciation came during a colourful grand finale which saw Etinan Institute and Community Secondary School, Aka Offot, crowned champions of the boys’ and girls’ categories respectively.
In the girls’ final, Community Secondary School, Aka Offot, defeated Methodist Secondary School, Ibiaku Ishiet, 5-0 to successfully defend the title they won in 2025.
The victory gave Aka Offot back-to-back titles in the competition organised by the Akwa Ibom State Football Association in partnership with the Troost-Ekong Foundation.
In the boys’ final, Etinan Institute defeated St Brian Model College 1-0 to claim the championship.
The grand finale also coincided with Troost-Ekong’s 33rd birthday and brought together schools, football officials, government representatives, parents, supporters and other stakeholders.
The champions received trophies, medals and cash prizes, while the runners-up were also presented with medals and cash prizes. Individual awards were presented for the best player, best goalkeeper and highest goal scorer in both categories.
All four finalists received sports equipment from the Troost-Ekong Foundation, while the Foundation also extended its support to all participating schools as part of its commitment to grassroots football development.
The Akwa Ibom State Referees Council once again thanked William Troost-Ekong, the Troost-Ekong Foundation and the Akwa Ibom State Football Association for the gesture.
“We are grateful,” the Council said.
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