36 Lion wins inaugural Lagos City Cup

 

In a keenly contested final, 36 Lion defeated Prince Kazeem Eletu FC 1-0 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena.

At the end of the four-day intensive scouting featuring over 200 youngsters, 22 players were selected by the Barcelona and Athletic Sant Just scouts.

It was a clash of Philosophies as Prince Kazeem Eletu FC faced off against 36 Lion in the final of the Lagos City Cup.

The Lions set up in a deep block and hit Prince Kazeem Eletu FC on the counter and it was this approach that led to the early goal. 

Prince Kazeem Eletu FC got a lifeline when referee pointed to the spot following a hand ball in the Lion's box. The late penalty kick was missed.

36 Lion heaved a sigh of relief after winning another title in 2023, following the success of Lagos Supremacy Cup.

AMAPROBet9ja 2023 Day Two Wrap: KFA, Dickalo seal quarter final spot as NPFL All Stars record first victory

 NNL All Stars continued to struggle after they were held to a 1-1 draw by Amapro Selected SA on Matchday two of the ongoing Amapro Bet9ja Football Championship in Ilorin. 

Bolaji Olawuyi scored on the 60th minute to cancel out Seun Ogunlana's early opener as the defending champions were held to a disappointing draw.

NPFL All Stars bounced back from their disappointing opening day defeat to Laycon FA as they beat SGFC Athletics 2-1 to record their first win in the competition.

Abayomi Junior took advantage of a mistake from SGFC Athletics goalkeeper Godwin Friday to tap in the opener for last year’s finalists. Samuel Bamigboye restored parity for the NLO side with just minutes before the break.

Issa Gata, who came on as a substitute scored very early in the second half to hand NPFL All-stars their first win in this year’s tournament.

The Jos boys have failed to win in their second game of the tournament as they settled for a stalemate against Le Pass SSA, who won their first game of the tournament. 

Abraysports FC continued with their impressive form following a 2-0 win over Teworh SC on Tuesday. 

Onatola Ayobami put Abraysports FC in the lead before Adeshina Mayowa increased the tally with a sublime free kick in the first half. Abraysports FC finished the game with two wins in two games. 

Da Faria showed promises of getting their first win this year, early in the game but KFA hit the the target first through a sublime free kick from Uche Solomon before Quadri Hammed doubled their lead early in the second half. Yinka Ayodele got one back for Da Faria SC  through a fine header but it was not enough to stop KFA from getting their second straight win. 

It was a day for Olaniyan Moshood as he netted a brace in Laycon FA’s 3-1 win. 

Gotie Taofiq opened the scoring for Laycon FA in the first half and Olaniyan Moshood increased the lead early in the second half with a sublime free kick. Gateway FA got back in the game with a spot kick from Akomolede Ayobami before Olaniyan Moshood sealed the game for Laycon FA with a fine strike late in the game. 

Pro leaguers remain winless  in the competition in two games after  their 1-0 defeat to HMK.

Alabi Nafiu was the hero for the Osogbo based side as his first half strike provide pivotal as they recorded their first win after their 1-1 draw against Ajaokuta FA in their first game.

Tosin Olawale and Kolawole Daniel were on target again for Dickalo FC as they beat Ajaokuta FA 2-0 to book their spot in the quarter finals of the competition.

By Wale Mustapha

Ogunjobi Gold Cup salutes Remo Stars, Sporting Lagos, Beyond Limits for CAF, NPFL, NNL feats

 

Organizers of the prestigious preseason tourney for domestic league clubs in Nigeria, Ogunjobi Gold Cup have given salutes to the management and technical staff of Remo Stars, Beyond Limits, and Sporting Lagos following feats they recorded at the football season-ending playoffs.

Remo Stars, the Optima Energy Gold Cup defending champion, made history in June at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena after they picked a ticket to feature in the prestigious CAF Champions League in the 2023/24 season, just a year after playing in the CAF Confederation Cup.

The club had recorded significant success after its academy team, Beyond Limits gained promotion to the Nigeria National League (NNL) following a 4-1 playoff victory over First Bank.

Sporting Lagos, against the odds, made a bold statement on Monday as they became the first Southern Conference team to earn a promotion ticket to the Nigeria Premier League with a game to spare at the playoffs in Asaba.

Coach Paul Offor guided his team to back-to-back wins against FC One Rocket and Abeokuta Stormers, to stay top of the group after Matchday 2 on 6 points.

Tunde Shamsudeen, General Coordinator of the tourney, "Congratulations to the Remo Stars, Sporting Lagos, and Beyond Limits for the successes recorded in the 2022/23 season. 

"We are delighted to be part of their success story as the Ogunjobi Gold Cup/ Optima Energy Gold Cup was the platform they used to get in shape for the football season that's almost ending.

"The interesting aspect of it all is the three clubs are privately owned, so the feat is a reward for the huge investments. The trio clubs are now a model and reference point for intending football investors to follow. 

"I want to charge the management of the teams not to relent in its drive to make their teams a top brand in Nigeria's domestic football by aiming for more successes, good luck for the future."

AMAPROBet9ja2023 Day One Wrap: Humbling start for NNL All-stars, NPFL All-stars as Dickalo win big

 

AMAPRO Bet9ja 2023 football championship kicked off in style on Monday at the Kwara Football Academy, KFA pitch in Ilorin with 19 goals scored that had interesting encounters and upsets.

Kwara United duo of Godwin Oshagbemi and Abubakar Garba powered Kwara Football Academy (KFA) to a 2-1 comeback win over defending champions, NNL All-stars in what was tagged as star match of opening day. 

Olasoju Jamiu fired NNL All-stars into the lead early in the 16th minute to set the pace for the game. 

Oshagbemi headed home on the 29th minutes to restore parity before Abubakar Garba powered in the winner on the 65th minute as they stunned the boys from the Most Important League in Nigeria to a 2-1 defeat.

A stalemate ended the affairs between AMAPRO Sports Academy and Da Faria SC. 

Both sides had good chances to grab a win in their first game but it was only going to end in a stalemate. 

2021 finalists, Abraysports FC came from a goal down to beat Ajaokuta FA in their opening game. 

Hyacinth Lazarus put Ajaokuta FA ahead early in the first half with a screamer from outside the area. Molaoye Abiodun leveled scoring with a fine header from a good Suraj Adebayo’s cross. 

Abraysports FC went ahead late in the game, after Adebayo directed a fine cross from the corner kick into Ajaokuta’s area and Mubaraq Hammed headed home the winner. 

Another shock defeat was recorded as the Pro Leaguers fell to a late goal from first timers, Le Pass SSA. 

Pro Leaguers had a chance to go ahead after winning a penalty in the second half but Afeez Yusuf missed the spot kick to keep the game at stalemate. 

A fine counter attack from Le Pass SSA late in the game eventually determined the outcome of the match. Tajudeen Abdulateef put Le Pass SSA ahead with a beautiful curler down the right and Lukman Orire was found wanting. 

The first half between Jazzy Stars FA and HMK FC ended in stalemate as both sides failed to convert their good chances. 

Jazzy Stars FA opened the scoring in the second half with a fine header from Ebenezer Okereke before Alabi Sodiq leveled from the spot kick late in the game. 

SGFC Athletics SC raced to a 2-0 win over Gateway FA of Ekiti with goals coming from Sunday Ekene and Adebowale Awolola on the 68th and 75th minutes respectively.

Dickalo FA recorded the heaviest win of the opening day as they thrashed Teworh SC 5-0. 

Two goals apiece from Lawal Azeez and Kolawole Daniel and a strike from Adams Ibrahim powered Dickalo FA to resounding victory over Kaduna based side, Teworh SC.

Laycon FA produced the biggest upset as they came from behind to beat NPFL All-stars 2-1, courtesy of goals from David John and Olaniyan Moshood in the 78th and 89th minutes to cancel out Babatunde Taofeek's 56th minute opener.

This tournament which is proudly sponsored by foremost Nigerian betting company, Bet9ja continues on Tuesday with other interesting fixtures. 

Final will be decided on Sunday 9th July, 2023 in Ilorin. 

Matchday Results: 

Amapro Selected SA 0-0 Da Faria

Dickalo FA 5-0 Teworh SC

SGFC Athletics 2-0 Gateway FA

KFA 2-1 NNL All-stars

Abraysports 2-1 Ajaokuta FA

Le Pass SSA 1-0 Pro Leaguers

Laycon FA 2-1 NPFL All-stars

Jazzy Stars FA 1-1 HMK FC 

Kogi AGILE SPSC chairman commends SPIU on proactivity, hard work

 

The Chairman of the Kogi State Project Steering Committee (SPSC) for Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE), Hon. Wemi Jones, who doubles as  the State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, recently commended the State Project Implementing Unit (SPIU) for its proactivity and hard work in achieving significant milestones within a short period.

 During a meeting held at his office in Lokoja, he emphasized the importance of teamwork and transparency in achieving success and encouraged the SPIU team to continue with their hard work. 

The state Project Coordinator, Dr. Bello, Abdulhakeem, expressed gratitude to the SPSC Chairman for his ongoing support and reiterated his team's commitment to exceeding expectations and ensuring the success of the AGILE project in the state. 

He stressed that the success recorded by the SPIU so far is solely based on the hard work and sacrifice of his team, adding that they showed passion and dedication all the way.

The PC further promised that his team is more than ready to exceed the expectation of the governor, the SPSC, and the World Bank, noting that the AGILE project in the state will be a success.

The AGILE project aims to provide adolescent girls with education and empowerment opportunities, particularly in the area of secondary school education.

Signed:

Bishop Aturu

Communication Officer

Benedict Akwuegbu: Early rise to stardom, how he was discovered at 16 by Sebastian Brodericks

Born in Jos, Plateau State on the 3rd of November 1974, young Benedict Akwuegbu attended Fatimah Primary School, before going furthering his education at the prestigious St. Murumba's College, Jos.

At St. Murumba's College, the young and talented Ben was active in sports and soon joined the School Football team at the age of 15, while still in form two. 

A fortunate stroke of serendipity, however shone on young Benedict Akwuegbu, when the then National U-17 Football Head Coach, Sebastian Brodericks was on the stand, when St. Murumba's College played against Airfoce Military School, a game 16 year old Benedict Akwuegbu shone like  million star.

Brodericks had won the first ever FIFA U-17 World Cup for Nigeria in 1985 and thought it was time to discover more talents for the 1989 edition. 

Akwuegbu was selected to the U-17 World Cup Final squad in 1989 hosted by Scotland.

However, he never had the chance to play as sitting on the bench in all four matches without substitution. Nigeria was beaten by eventual winner Saudi Arabia at the quarter-final stage, but it was indeed a great experience for the 16 year old, who went on to play for the Flying Eagles,  Under-23 teams and the Super Eagles. 

"It was a great experience for me. I was very young and was lucky to be part of the National team. Playing wasn't so important for me then, but the exposure I got, made me a better player. it really shaped me for better things ahead."

In 2000, his success in Austria made him joining the Africa Cup of Nations tournament which he played his first international game against Tunisia. With his progress in the team he was involved in the 2002 World Cup Qualifier and scoring two goals in the process, His performance made him selected to the 2002 World Cup Final squad. He played the only World Cup game against England.

Akwuegbu, 49, had an illustrious career that spanned through RC Lens, France (1991-92), KSC eedracht Aalst, Belgium (1992-93), Harelbek, Belgium (1994-96), Waregem, Belgium (1996-97), Tienen, Belgium (1997-98), Grazer AK, Austria (1998-2002), Sheyang Ginde, China(loan 2002), Grazer AK , Austria (2002-2004), FC Karnten, Austria (2004), St Gallen, Switzerland (2004-2005), Wacker Innsbruck, Austria (2005-2006), Siegen, Germany (2006) and Tianjin Teda, China (loan 2006).

The former Heartland of Owerri Assistant General Manager also had career spells at Panserraikos, Greece (2006-2007), Qingdao Jonoon, China (2007), Beijing Hongdeng, China (2008) and Basingstoke Town, England (2009-2010) before calling time on his career.

Akwuegbu scored eight times for the Super Eagles in 30 appearances.

Benedict Akwuegbu: Ex Nigerian football star talks up Super Eagles chances to win 2023 AFCON title

Former Nigeria striker Benedict Akwuegbu has hinted that, with the recent competitions and emerging talents in the senior national team, Super Eagles' trophy draught will soon be over.

Akwuegbu, who represented Nigeria at U-17, U-20, U-23 and Super Eagles gave the assertion on Sunday whip featuring as guest in a top football WhatsApp platform, Family United By Football FUBF.

The former striker noted that with exceptional players and right tactics, Nigeria is favourite looking forward to AFCON 2023.

"We have great players like Kelechi Iheanacho, Victor Osimhen and the rest. Nigeria can get back to winning ways, with fantastic strikers and brilliant midfielders.

"We can do well and win the Nations Cup again, if the tactics is right," concluded Ben who had 30 caps for Super Eagles. 

Recall that Stephen Keshi tutored side delivered the last trophy celebrated by the senior national team in 2013 and agonizingly missed out consecutively in 2015 and 2017.

At the 2019 edition in Egypt, Nigerians were hopeful of better outings but Algeria broke the hearts of the three times champions with a late free kick by Riyad Mahrez during the semifinal face-off.

It's more of a disappointing finals last time out as Austin Eguavoen led Super Eagles could not go past round of 16 even with promising squad. 

Akwuegbu whose sojourn in the senior national side spanned across five years said the Nigeria can do well once again and bring the silverware back to Nigeria if we get the tactics right this time around.

NNL Super 8: How Heartland weather through Stormers FC

 

By Wole Opatola

The last match of the opening day fixtures of the Nigeria National League Super 8 play-off ended in a stalemate just as the conference table for both the Northern and Southern Conference begins to take shape.

Needing a victory of some sorts to match or surpass the scoreline recorded from the first match of the group involving Sporting Lagos and FC One Rocket, both sides went into the game like a gang with an assault riffle at their disposal but in a surprising scenario, the two teams fired blanks all through. 

In a game where chances were limited and far in-between, the coach of Stormers FC of Abeokuta, Sakiru Lawal defended the outcome of the game by disclosing that the result was not a true reflection of the game play. "No it was a highly technical game. 

The result from the earlier game unsettled both sides and it is nothing from the ordinary to get such an outcome as witnessed in the game. Unto the next game for further comments", the ex-footballer turned coach concluded.

Action resumes on Monday with matches in the Northern and Southern Conferences on match day two of the NNL Super 8 play-off.

Defending champions NNL All Stars in tough group as organizers release fixtures for 2023 AMAPRO Bet9ja championship

 

The 2022 Champions of AMAPRO Bet9ja Football Championship, NNL All-Stars have been handed a tough draw in the 2023 edition, which is scheduled to kickoff on Monday in Ilorin. 

NNL All-stars, who defeated NPFL All-stars 3-2 on penalties in last year's final have been placed in Group B alongside, Kwara Football Academy (KFA), Da Faria FC and AMAPRO SSA. 

Last year’s finalists, NPFL All-stars will compete in Group A against Nationwide League One, NLO side, SGFC Athletics, Laycon FA and Gateway FA. 

In Group C, 2021 Finalists, Abraysports FC will compete against Teworh Sports Club, Dickalo FA and Ajaokuta FA. 

The Pro-leaguers will battle the boys from jos, Jazzy Stars FA, HMK FC from Osogbo and Le Pass SA in Group D of the championship that is sponsored by the leading getting platform in Nigeria, Bet9ja. 

The 8th edition of the tournament kick starts on Monday, July 3rd while the final will be decided on Sunday 9th of July, 2023. 

Group A

1. NPFL All-stars

2. SGFC 

3. Gateway FA

4. Laycon FC

Group B

1. NNL All-stars

2. Amapro SSA

3. Da Faria FC

4. KFA

Group C

1. Teworh Sports Club

2. Dickalo FA

3. Abraysports FC

4. Ajaokuta FA

Group D

1. Jazzy Stars FA

2. HMK FC

3. Pro-Leaguers

4. Le Pass SA. 

Daniel Daga meets football hero, Samuel Chukwueze

 

Defensive midfielder Daniel Daga had one of his dreams come through after finally meeting 24-year-old Super Eagles and Villarreal winger Samuel Chukwueze on Friday.

The story of Daniel Daga was first celebrated when he emerged Most Valuable player at the 2022 WAFU B U20 Tournament.

Daga, 16, was one of the shinning lights for Nigeria at the 2023 FIFA U20 World Cup in Argentina. His showing has attracted interests from Liverpool and AC Milan.

Having met Samuel Chukwueze at West Itam Stadium in what he described as the biggest moment of his life, Daga said patience is indeed a virtue. 

He eulogized the skillful Villarreal man as humble and kindhearted. 

Daniel Daga, who is on the books of One Rocket presented a beautiful portrait to Samuel Chukwueze.

Samuel Chukwueze appreciated the kind gesture and urged the teenager to keep working hard.

The 24-year-old was a regular fixture in the Villareal side this term, scoring six goals and providing five assists in 37 La Liga appearances as the Yellow Submarine finished fifth.

Having graduated from the club's youth academy in September 2018, the Nigerian has gone on to play over 207 games for Villarreal, netting 37 times over a five-year period.

Monimichelle sports facilities construction Limited: the best in football pitch construction and maintenance

 

There is no doubt about the fact that good football pitch enhance good display of football 

artistry and as well improve developmental football which in turn bring out the best in players and produce good result.

Monimichelle sports facilities construction Limited who specialized

in turnkey sports facilities and construction of hybrid synthetic football pitch is one of the leading sports construction company in the world and he has proven this overtime with various pitches that he has handled and still handling among them is Enyimba International stadium,Aba, Samson Sia Sia stadium in Yenegoa Bayelsa state, Mobolaji Johnson sports arena in Lagos state and many other notable good football pitches in Nigeria are the testaments to his professionalism in the job.

His professionalism and topnotch approach in constructing and delivering quality job has given him another opportunity to construct a full size FIFA approved hybrid synthetic mini stadium at a beach in Lagos with pavilion and seating capacity of 2,000 which will cause 'marriage' between sports and tourism as the landscape of the area will change for the best.

EbiEgbe(Monimichelle)has received different trainings in and around the world  on how to improve on his craft and that have taken him to different part of the world and has well give him edge over other competing companies.

He has also met with top pitch construction experts.In his bid to add acquire more knowledge,  Ebi recently  flew to Portugal for the signing off of takers agreement with a top sports field construction company for the introduction of   FIFA approved  Monimichelle nature pure 100% natural infill and 17000Dtex  Ebiere-45 lead free synthetic grass with the revolutionary resilience technology to the European Market and world at large.

The truth that must be told is that Monimichelle sports facilities construction Limited is a trailblazer and pathfinder and any country,state or individual that want to construct and as well maintain good sports facilities need to think of no other company but Monimichelle sports facilities construction company.

'Plan your present for a better future', Hon. Ekene Adams charges Nigerian players

 

Honourable Ekene Abubakar Adams has charged Super Eagles stars and their counterparts in the Nigerian domestic league to plan for life after their peak in football.

Honourable Adams, House of Representatives member on the platform of the Labour Party (LP), representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency of Kaduna State gave the charge during a dinner in his honour by All Stars Football Club, Yelwa, Kaduna State Chapter.

The All Stars Football Club, Yelwa, is made up of all ex-footballers (veterans) of the beautiful round leather game, that are resident in the state.

In his thought-provoking speech, Honourable Adams while showering praises on Super Eagles winger, Simon Moses and other VIPs at the event said: "I want to express my delight in the honour given me with this dinner by the leadership and members of All Stars Football Club, Yelwa.

"I have seen it all in football, as a former player, club manager/owner and now a lawmaker in the Green Chamber, so I feel pained when I see players who made a career out of the round leather game, living in poverty after they retire.

"Many of such players during their peak in football were ignorant, had unnecessary egos, didn't invest wisely, let alone give back to society. Not knowing that, when you give to society, it will accept you with open arms when you come back.

"A few kind hearted Super Eagles stars like Moses Simon to mention a few are giving back to their society and I want other Nigerian players to emulate him in this regard.

"My new status as member representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency in the Green Chamber, didn't come cheap, as I believed in it, struggled and worked hard to achieve it.

"Irrespective of that, my success is all geared towards giving back to society. I have not relented and will continue serving humanity as in the last one week I have done a project worth N120 million with collecting a kobo from the government.

"However, it's sad that despite all the efforts I have put over the years in trying to make football an envy for all in Kaduna State, I am being crucified for no just cause.

"Many of you who toll that line are just being naive and used as tools by politicians who have no positive agenda for the development of football in Kaduna let alone Nigeria.

"For the fact that we don't share the same football ideologies, those crucifying me forget I have made more impact in football viz-a-viz empowering our youths in and out of Kaduna with KADA City Football Club.

"Many of you (internationals) didn't know that I coughed out N9.6 million monthly to players and staff of KADA City. 

"Without contributing anything to football development, they sit in their comfort zones trying to destroy the football ecosystem I have built in the state.

"For the game to reach it's highest pedals, we all must stop the blame game, throw away our different ideologies, and find common grounds to develop football in Kaduna and indeed Nigeria."

Senator Ohere drums support for Ododo, describe him as true Kogi Agenda

 

The people of Kogi State have been asked to see the aspiration of Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo in the forthcoming November governorship election as Kogi agenda and not one built on sentiment.

The Senator Representing Kogi Central, Sen. Engr. Abubakar Ohere made the disclosure at Ogaminana, Adavi LGA while speaking to a cross section of critical stakeholders of Kogi Central at a meeting hosted by Alhaji Ozigi Maiyaki Asema, Chairman, Adavi Critical Stakeholders.

The Senator appealed to the people of Kogi Central to join hands with Gov. Yahaya Bello in making sure that they consolidate on the gains already achieved in the State.

Sen. Ohere described Alhaji Ododo's administration as one that would consolidate on the infrastructure and development the State has witnessed, pointing out that if elected the APC Flagbearer has the capacity to consolidate on the gains already achieved.

The All Progressives Congress Governorship Candidate, Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo, the State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Alhaji Abdullahi Bello, assured that if elected, the APC Flagbearer would develop the tourism and waterways subsector of the State.

Similarly, Sen. Ohere assured that the APC Flagbearer has the capacity, would make policies that would impact on the exploitation of mineral resources, the education, health and other critical sectors of the State economy.

Sen. Ohere described the aspiration of Alhaji Ododo as a Kogi agenda beyond sentiments, appealed to the people of Kogi Central to make friends with the Igalas, the Okuns, described the project as one that is about persuasion, urged them to use languages that would appeal to the sense of reasoning of the people across the divide 

While pointing out that no district in the State can produce the Governorship of the State, disclosed that it entails handshake across boarders of ethnic divide.

Sen. Ohere thanked the  Chairman, Adavi LGA Critical Stakeholders, Alhaji Ozigi Maiyaki Asema for hosting the meeting, described the APC Flagbearer as what Kogi State need after the expiration of the administration of Gov. Yahaya Bello, expressed optimism that Alh. Ododo has the capacity, competence to consolidate on building a prosperous Kogi State.

NPFL All-Stars, NNL All-Stars, Gateway FC, KFA, 12 others confirmed for 8th AMAPROBet9ja Championship as Draw Holds July 1st

 

Sixteen (16) teams have been confirmed for the 2023 edition of Amateur and Professional, AMAPRO football championship billed to kickoff on Monday 3rd July, 2023 at the Kwara Football Academy, KFA Pitch, Ilorin. 

Notable among the participating teams are regular comers, Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL All Stars, Nigeria National League, NNL All Stars, Nationwide League One side, Abraysport FC, Gateway FC from Ekiti State. 

Others are Laycon FC, AMAPRO Sporting Academy, HMK FC from Osogbo, SGFC Athletics, Dickalo Football Academy, Barrier Football Club, Kwara Football Academy, KFA and Le Pass Sporting Academy.

The eight edition that is sponsored by the leading betting platform in Nigeria, BET9JA will also have Jazzy Stars FA from Jos, Ajaokuta FA from Kogi State, Da Faria FC from Lagos, and Teworh FA from Kaduna.

In a media release by the Communication Unit of the Championship on Wednesday, the 16 teams will be group into four groups with four teams each. 

There will be prizes for the best goalkeeper, top scorer and King of the championship. 

The release disclosed that the draws ceremony where fixtures will be released will take place on Saturday 1st July, 2023 via zoom. 

The AMAPROBet9ja championship will kickoff on the 3rd July with final to be decided on Sunday 9th of July 2023.

NNL All Stars defeated NPFL All Stars 4-3 on penalties to emerge winners of the last edition.

Bendel Insurance Deserves Huge Pampering after Breaking 43 Years Jinx

 

... Learning from Nyesom Wike, Kunle Soname, Orji Uzor Kalu, others

After a staggering 43-year trophy drought from a major silverware, the team defied all odds, coming from the second division and captivating fans, the team made history by lifting the oldest trophy in Nigeria football and clinching a  continental ticket. 

Wednesday, 21st of June 2023, a glorious display of resilience and character from Bendel Insurance etched their names into the chronicles of Edo State's sporting history by clinching the Federation Cup.

It is evident that the unwavering support and visionary leadership of the state governments have played a pivotal role in the team's remarkable journey to glory. 

Governor Godwin Obaseki and Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu, true patrons of sports, have consistently demonstrated their deep commitment to restoring Edo State to where it once was as the Home of Sports. This mandate which led to the formation of the Edo Sports Commission has seen the development and success of the Benin Arsenals, which has now soared to unprecedented heights by claiming the Federation Cup in style.

Through the steadfast backing and relentless pursuit of excellence, the state government has not only transformed the fortunes of Bendel Insurance but has also breathed new life into the sporting landscape of the entire state.

While basking in the glory of this major achievement, this writer urges the state government to take a proactive stance in securing the future of our Bendel Insurance. It is crucial that the State Government recognize the indispensable role the players and coaching staff have played in our team's success. 

As they continue to shine brightly, it is only natural that they attract lucrative offers from other clubs seeking to capitalize on their exceptional talents. To ensure that the club retain her invaluable assets and maintain the cohesive unit that has brought them this far, this writer strongly advocates for a handsome rewards system.

Winning a trophy of such magnitude warrants substantial rewards for the players and the dedicated backroom staff who have toiled tirelessly behind the scenes, after such a feat; this writer believes it is time to turn their words into actions and make the boys truly happy as the state governor can seek this opportunity to crest his name in history.

It is without a doubt that rewarding players and backroom staff handsomely has always enhanced players' performances for their teams, served as a means of having the stars of the club remain despite mouth-watering deals from other teams as they will be confident that their life is valued and that could only be the main tool to get more from them. 

States to Emulate or Outdo

Sports enthusiasts around Nigeria will always remember the name of the former Rivers Governor, Nyesom Wike, the Working Governor, fondly referred to as Gburugburu of Rivers Land. His support for sports has catapulted Rivers United into the limelight not only in Nigeria but the continent where they got as far as the Quarter final of the CAF Confederations Cup.

No longer governor of the state, Wike's generosity to players ($20,000 each for making it to the continent as league winners) has left an indelible mark on the lives of the Rivers United team and their supporters, ensuring they will forever remember him as the man with the 'Capacity Doings.' It is a legacy that Governor Obaseki can aspire to exceed, elevating Bendel Insurance's place in Edo State's sporting landscape.

Most recently, Remo Stars owner, Hon. Kunle Soname (OFR) rewarded players, backroom staff, media team, and supporters club handsomely (#28 million) for securing a continental ticket after finishing as runners-up in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Super Six, how much more a team that renewed the hope of the state - winning two trophies back to back, setting 21-games unbeaten record, winning the FA Cup for the first time in 43 years and returning to the continent after 28 years - I believe in the capacity of the governor and his deputy governor.

Going memory lane, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu is a man many around the world will remember for his generosity and rewards to players who gave the State glorious times. Only a few of them are of Abia State origin, but many of them have become Abia indigenes by rewards of Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu.

To truly reward the heroes of Bendel Insurance, some impactful gestures this writer will suggest is to grant each player and backroom staff member a plot of land within the state and have it named the "Bendel Insurance Estate" - have you thought of how big that will ink your name in the heart of millions? Think about it, your Excellency.

If this can't be done, these players should be handsomely rewarded financially for their feat - this is what many governors will be envious of and would have prayed to happen in their state. Your Excellency, if this is not done, heaven will not fall, but a lot would be left to say about a state that prides in success but fails to reward the actors 

This act of appreciation would not only solidify their commitment to the team but also transform them into honorary indigenes of Edo State. 

The prospect of owning a piece of Bendel Insurance Estate, a symbol of the team's legacy and a testament to their achievements, would resonate deeply with the players, their families, and the ardent supporters of Bendel Insurance. Such a gesture would undoubtedly inspire the Benin Arsenals to remain at the pinnacle of their prowess as they venture into the continental stage.

Celebrating Bendel Insurance goes beyond rewards and material tokens of appreciation. Their success signifies the unwavering spirit of Edo State, the tenacity and passion that have come to define them as the "Heartbeat of the Nation." 

As Governor Obaseki continues to solidify his legacy as the "Wake and See Governor," it is imperative that he transcends words and demonstrates his commitment to Bendel Insurance. By rewarding their triumph with tangible and heartfelt gestures, he can engrave his name in the hearts of the players, their families, and the loyal supporters who have stood by their side through thick and thin. 

The time is now for Governor Obaseki to shine the light on Bendel Insurance and ignite the flame of its continued success, as the "Heartbeat of the Nation" beats louder than ever before.