In recognition of their outstanding performance at the 2024 WAFU-B Zonal Champions League qualifiers in Côte d’Ivoire, the Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has announced a ₦100 million cash reward for the victorious Edo Queens Football Club.
The announcement was made during a grand reception held at the Festival Hall in Government House to honor the reigning champions of the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL).
The Edo Queens secured a commanding 3-0 victory against Ainonvi FC of Benin Republic in the final match in Abidjan, lifting the 2024 WAFU-B Zonal Champions League cup and securing their spot in the CAF Women’s Champions League proper.
Governor Obaseki, a passionate advocate for sports, lauded the team for their exceptional skill and resilience, praising the entire squad, including the supporters club, for their contributions to this historic achievement.
“You have all done well. For me, this is our season of celebration. Tomorrow, Edo will be 33 years old, and this victory is a present that fills me with pride and joy,” the Governor stated. “Before we came into power, there was no respect for Edo women; nobody gave them a chance. But thank God all that has changed now. Some past governments didn’t understand that sports is a vital aspect of youth development, and I am happy that the work and investment we have put in over the past eight years is now bearing fruit. We will continue to encourage our youth.”
Governor Obaseki further urged the team to strive for even greater success at the CAF Women’s Champions League, hinting at additional rewards should they bring home another trophy. “I congratulate you girls. I encourage you to win the CAF Champions League. I will not tell you what I will do for you yet, but for this, you have made us proud, and you have made Nigeria proud. So, I give you all ₦100 million.”
This latest triumph adds to Edo Queens’ impressive record, having previously won the Sheroes Cup, Betsy Obaseki Cup, and the NWFL Premiership titles. The team’s performance in the WAFU-B Zonal qualifiers was nothing short of stellar, winning all five of their matches, scoring 14 goals, and conceding just one.
The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, along with the team’s head coach, Moses Aduku, expressed their gratitude to Governor Obaseki and the First Lady, Dr. Betsy Obaseki, for their unwavering support and investment in women’s football, which they credited as the driving force behind Edo Queens’ success.
“Since I assumed office in Edo, we have been winning. We are the reigning national champions and now West African champions. We sincerely thank our Governor for the immense support he has given us,” said the Sports Commission boss.
Coach Aduku echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of the Governor’s timely financial backing. “I was confident that we were going to achieve good results.
Despite this being our first time competing at this level, I believed in our ability to win. We remain grateful to the Governor, and as we prepare for the CAF Champions League, we are determined to bring another cup home.”
Edo Queens are now set to compete in the 4th Edition of the CAF Women’s Champions League finals later this year in Egypt, where they will aim to further cement their status as a dominant force in African women’s football.
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