By Ozioruva Aliu
THE governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo yesterday received the victorious Edo Queens football club for emerging winners of the 2026 WAFU-B Women’s Champions League titles held in Burkina Faso.
Receiving the team in government house, Governor Okpebholo commended the doggedness and determination of the team and announced a reward of N50 million for the players and their officials.
Edo Queens played a 2-2 draw against Ghanaian side, Ampem Darkoa Ladies, after regulation time before Edo Queens prevailed 4-1 in the decisive penalty shootout.
The governor said the victory was significant to Edo people and the country, adding that the players displayed resilience and determination throughout the competition and that while watching the match, he was sure the girls would defeat their opponent when it got the penalty shootout after observing the composure of the goal keeper.
He said he was particularly impressed by the goalkeeper’s saves during the shootout, describing them as crucial to the team’s victory.
He said “I must commend the players for their doggedness. I also want to thank the coaching crew and other officials. I want to reward the team with the sum of N50 million.”
The governor also commended the Edo Broadcasting Service (EBS) for televising the match live, saying the coverage enabled more Nigerians to watch and celebrate the team’s achievement.
Earlier, Amadin Enabulele, Chairman of the Edo Sports Commission, commended Edo Queens’ resilience throughout the tournament, saying that they had done the state proud.
“Our girls have truly done us proud. To win the Nigeria Women’s Football League and the WAFU-B championship in the same season is no small feat.
“It requires grit, unity, discipline, resilience and an unshakeable belief in oneself.
“I am particularly proud of the new management for not only keeping the flame burning but also raising the standard even higher,” he said.
Enabulele also commended the Edo Queens coaches, technical crew and management team for their sacrifices, adding that they carried the hopes and aspirations of Edo people on their shoulders.
Edo Queens
The Chairman of Bendel Insurance Football Club, Jarrett Tenebe, described the Edo Queens as warriors, saying that they were ready to conquer Africa sooner than expected due to the motivation the team was receiving from the governor.
