Gov. Monday Okpebholo of Edo has commended the doggedness and determination of the victorious Edo Queens following their triumph over a Ghanaian side, announcing a reward of N50 million for the players and their officials.
Okpebholo made the announcement during the presentation of the 2025/26 Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) and the 2026 WAFU-B Women’s Champions League titles at the Festival Hall, Government House, Benin, on Tuesday.
It will be recalled that 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.
According to him, he was confident that the team would win the penalty shootout after observing the goalkeeper’s composure and strategy.
Okpebholo said the goalkeeper’s movements and efforts to distract the Ghanaian penalty takers gave him confidence that the team would prevail.
He said he was particularly impressed by the goalkeeper’s saves during the shootout, describing them as crucial to the team’s victory.
The governor also commended the coach and other members of the technical crew for their contributions to the success.
“For me, this cup matters to Edo people and it matters to the country.
“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,” Okpebholo said.
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.
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.
Tenebe said that meaningful engagement of youths would solve 85 per cent of security challenges in the state, adding that the governor was attaching more interest to youth development to curb crime and criminality.
