Join our Telegram group and receive breaking and trending news updates directly on your phone.
Join for News Updates ✕
By Correspondent in Lokoja.
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has donated a brand-new 32-seater bus to Confluence Queens FC of Lokoja as a bold step to reposition sports and invigorate women’s football in the state.
The landmark intervention, aimed at enhancing the team’s mobility, morale, and competitive advantage, was presented on behalf of the Governor by the Commissioner for Information and Communications, Evangelist Kingsley Fanwo.
Speaking at the handover ceremony in Lokoja, the Governor acknowledged the challenges facing football clubs across the country and reassured the team of the government’s deliberate efforts to address the specific needs of Confluence Queens FC.
He stressed that his administration remains committed to repositioning sports in the state for excellence, growth, and sustainability.
“We understand your challenges and are taking steps to address them. Setbacks such as relegation should serve as motivation for a stronger comeback. Stay focused and determined,this team belongs at the top,” the governor said.
The governor urged the players to remain disciplined, patient, and committed,assuring them that issues related to their welfare,including improved camping facilities and better remuneration,are being given serious attention.
According to him, a conducive environment is critical to enabling the players to concentrate and deliver peak performance.
Governor Ododo, however,challenged the team to justify the government’s support with improved results in forthcoming competitions.
“With this new bus, you can confidently compete anywhere in Nigeria. Let your performance reflect your renewed motivation. When the Governor sees positive results, it will inspire even greater support,” he added.
The symbolic presentation of the bus key was made to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Mr. Momoh Steven Azeez, who expressed gratitude to the Governor, noting that the gesture would significantly boost the team’s morale and drive for excellence in national competitions.
Also speaking, the club’s Chairman, Abdulmalic Isah, described the donation as timely and commendable, while appealing for sustained support, particularly in player welfare and funding, to help the team compete effectively with counterparts from other states.
The Team Manager, Oluwatosin Ojo, lauded the Governor for prioritizing the female team, describing the gesture as a strong statement against gender inequality in sports development.
She called for the construction of a befitting camp for the team and extended the appeal for similar support to Kogi United, the state’s male football team facing comparable challenges.
Sports enthusiasts described the donation of the bus as a significant milestone in the Ododo administration’s broader agenda to revitalize sports in Kogi State.
They expressed optimism that continued investment in sports, especially football,will translate into improved performance of athletes and players and serve as a greater national recognition for the state.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
