Austin Pade, Yenagoa
Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State has doled out a reward of N22 million cash to players and officials of Bayelsa Queens for winning the 2018 National Women Premier League (NWPL) competition.
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.
Dickson announced the cash gift to the players during a reception in Government House, Yenagoa, which coincided with his 53rd birthday.
The governor’s largesse was contained in a statement by his Special Adviser on Public Affairs, Mr. Daniel Alabrah.
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. Prekiye Buruboyefe, to ensure that the players got at least 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.
The Governor promised continuous support for the team even as he assured that his administration has prioritized sports development with a view to taking it to enviable heights.
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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.
In his remark, 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.
