Dickson rewards Bayelsa Queens with N22m, bus, other gifts

For emerging champions of the 2018 National Women Premier League (NWPL) Super Four Championship, Bayelsa Queens Football Club has been rewarded by Governor Seriake Dickson with N22 million, which would be shared among the players and officials.

The Restoration Ladies defeated Nasarawa Amazons 2-0 at the Agege Stadium in Lagos on Sunday to win the Super Four Tournament, a title they had won in 2004, 2006 and 2007.Dickson announced the cash gift to the players during a reception in Government House, Yenagoa, which coincided with his 53rd birthday.

According to the governor’s Special Adviser on Public Affairs, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, Dickson, 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.

Directing the Commissioner for Sports Development, Mr. Perekiye Buruboyefe, to ensure that the players got N500,000 each, the governor 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.He promised continuous support for the team, even as he assured that his administration prioritised sports development with a view to taking it to enviable heights.

“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.“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.”

Buruboyefe also congratulated the governor, noting that the victory was the outcome of the huge investment, support and encouragement of his administration. Timitimi said the victory was a gesture to thank the governor for his financial and moral support to the team and assured that the team would continue to give its best while representing the state.