Bayelsa State Governor, Honourable Henry Seriake Dickson, yesterday announced a cash reward of N22 million for players and officials of Bayelsa Queens, winners of the 2018 National Women Premier League (NWPL).
The Bayelsa State-sponsored Restoration Ladies defeated Nasarawa Amazons 2-0 at the Agege Stadium in Lagos on Sunday to emerge champions of the Super Four Tournament, a title they last won in 2007.
Governor Dickson announced the cash gift to the players during a reception in Government House, Yenagoa, which coincided with his 53rd birthday.
A press release by his Special Adviser on Public Affairs, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, stated that the governor, who was presented with the trophy and an award from the organisers as one of the most football supportive states, congratulated the players, coaches and support staff for giving him a befitting birthday gift.
He directed the Commissioner for Sports Development, Mr. Perekiye Buruboyefe, to ensure that the players got N500,000 each.
He also assented to the request from the club’s chairman, Mr. Ebiki Timitimi, for a Coaster bus as well as monthly stipends for the feeder team players.
Governor Dickson promised continuous support for the team even as he assured that his administration has prioritised sports development with a view to taking it to enviable heights.
His words: “I congratulate you, Bayelsa State and the Ijaw Nation for this victory. There is no doubt that you are the best in the country. Bayelsa is indeed a state of champions and there is no state like Bayelsa in this country.
“There was intense jubilation when we won. We are very proud of you and what you have achieved. You all gave me a befitting and very exciting birthday present.”
In a remark, the Commissioner for Sports Development, Mr. Buruboyefe, also congratulated the governor, noting that the victory was the outcome of the huge investment, support and encouragement of his administration.
Similarly, the chairman, Mr. Timitimi, said the victory was a gesture to say thank you to the governor for the financial and moral support to the team.
He assured that the team would continue to give its best to represent the state and congratulated the governor on his 53rd birthday.