Obaseki splashes N100m on Edo Queens for WAFU-B Cup Win

The Governor of Edo State, Mr Godwin Obaseki, announced a N100 million cash reward for Edo Queens Football Club in recognition of their outstanding performance and triumph at the 2024 WAFU-B Zonal Champions League qualifiers in Côte d’Ivoire.

The announcement was made during a grand reception at the Festival Hall in Government House, Benin City, organized to honour the team, who are also the reigning Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) 2024 champions.

Edo Queens secured a dominant 3-0 victory against Ainonvi FC of Benin Republic in the final held in Abidjan, clinching the WAFU-B Zonal Champions League title and earning a spot in the CAF Champions League. Governor Obaseki praised the team’s exceptional skill and resilience, as well as the unwavering support from the fans.

“You have all done well. This is our season of celebration. Tomorrow, Edo will be 33 years old, and I am thrilled with the gift you have given me,” Obaseki remarked. He highlighted the transformation in the perception of Edo women in sports since his administration took office, emphasizing the importance of investing in youth development through sports.

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The Governor expressed confidence in the team’s potential to win the CAF Champions League, stating, “I encourage you to win the CAF Champions League. I won’t reveal what I’ll do for you then, but for this victory, you have made us all proud. I’m giving you N100 million.”

Edo Queens’ victory marks them as only the second Nigerian team to win the WAFU-B title. Their impressive track record also includes victories in the Sheroes Cup, Betsy Obaseki Cup, and NWFL Premiership. During the WAFU-B zonal qualifiers, Edo Queens won all five of their matches, scoring 14 goals and conceding only one.

The team will next compete in the 4th Edition of the CAF Women’s Champions League finals in Egypt later this year.

Yusuf Alli, Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, and Moses Aduku credited the team’s success to the prompt release of funds by the state government, which ensured thorough preparation for the tournament.