Akwa United have spoken for the first time after missing out on promotion from the Nigeria National League, sending a strong message to rivals, the state government, Ibom Air and their supporters.
The Promise Keepers ended their 2025/2026 season with a 2–1 away win against Solution FC in Awka, but it was not enough to secure promotion. Sporting Lagos claimed the only ticket in Conference B by just one point.
In an official statement signed by the club chairman, Mr Joseph Eno, Akwa United congratulated their rivals and reflected on a tough season.
“We extend our warm congratulations to Sporting Lagos on their achievement. They provided formidable competition throughout the season, and the race for promotion remained intense until the final day of the league season.”
The club highlighted their strong performances during the campaign, including an unbeaten home record, three away wins, and one draw on the road.
“Our campaign was marked by an unbeaten home record, three away victories, and one away draw. Unfortunately, these efforts were not sufficient to secure promotion. While this outcome is disappointing, we accept it in the true spirit of the game and now turn our focus to the challenges ahead.”
Akwa United also took time to appreciate the support they received throughout the season, starting with the Akwa Ibom State Government.
“We express our profound gratitude to our sports-loving Governor, His Excellency Umo Eno, for his unwavering support and commitment to Akwa United Football Club. We remain resolute in our determination to achieve our promotion objective next season.”
The club also praised the Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, for his consistent backing.
“Our sincere appreciation also goes to our pillar of support, the Honourable Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, whose consistent backing has been invaluable. We only wish our results had fully reflected his dedication and efforts.”
Akwa United did not forget their sponsors, especially Ibom Air, whose support they described as vital to the team’s progress.
“We also acknowledge our worthy partners and sponsors, Ibom Air, whose continued support has strengthened and uplifted the team. Their reliability remains a great source of encouragement, and we look forward to celebrating shared success in the near future.”
The club reserved special praise for their fans, who stood by the team both at home and away.
“To our loyal and passionate fans, we say thank you. Your support—both at home and on the road, as well as your strong online presence—has been a constant source of inspiration throughout the season. We urge you to continue standing with us, and we promise to make you proud.”
Despite the setback, Akwa United made it clear that their season is not over, as attention now shifts to the President Federation Cup.
“Although the NNL season has come to an end, our journey this football season continues. The President Federation Cup presents another opportunity to achieve success. Our campaign resumes on Monday, April 20, as we compete in the semifinals of the State FA Cup at the State level.”
The club admitted disappointment but insisted they will come back stronger.
“As a club, we are disappointed but proud of the effort put into this promotion race. We fought until the final whistle of the league season. We will carefully review the lessons from this season and take decisive steps to ensure we return stronger, better prepared, and ready to fight for promotion next season.”
In a related development, Akwa United booked their place in the final of the 2026 Akwa Ibom State FA Cup after a dominant 4-0 victory over Heaven’s Race Academy, while also sealing qualification for the 2026 Nigeria President Federation Cup.
The Promise Keepers delivered a strong performance in the semi-final, with goals from Daniel Gothom, Yannick Menegbe, and a brace from Aniebiet Sunday securing a comfortable win.
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