From Tony Osauzo, Benin
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has unveiled the management and players of Bendel Insurance and Edo Queens Football Club, affirming the government’s commitment to revitalising the football clubs and restoring them to their glory days.
Represented by his Deputy Governor, Rt Hon. Dennis Idahosa, Governor Okpebholo conducted the official unveiling at the Government House, Benin City.
Recognising the importance of sports in building cohesion, fostering unity, and driving economic growth in society, Idahosa said the Edo State Government places great importance on sporting activities and is committed to revitalising the twin clubs, aiming to take them to enviable heights in both national and intercontinental football competitions.
“It is with great pleasure I welcome you to this epoch-making event. Today’s unveiling of the management and players of Bendel Insurance FC and Edo Queens underscores the importance this administration places on sport as a verifiable vehicle for cohesion and progress.
“The appointment of the new management team and extra players are testaments to the government’s resolve to revitalise Bendel Insurance and Edo Queens FC and restore them to their glory days in Nigerian football competitions.
“The resolve of this present administration is to support the Edo State Commission’s vision of grooming talents, especially youths, in channelling their energy as envisioned by the founding fathers.
“The new coach, the technical directors, and the team management must work together to improve the performance of Bendel Insurance FC and advance the club beyond Premier League tournaments. The new players must shun indiscipline, hooliganism, and embrace teamwork to place them ahead in the league.
“The superlative performance of Edo Queens FC as the defending champion of the Women’s Football League has restored the position of Edo State as the home of sport in Nigeria. The state governor is proud and elated over the performance of Edo Queens in Nigerian female football tournaments and in continental engagements.
“It is my honour and privilege to unveil the new management and players of Bendel Insurance FC and Edo Queens FC for more victories and success,” the Deputy Governor added.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Desmond Enabulele, said the gathering was unique as it provided an opportunity to unveil the team that would take the clubs to national and international competitions.
He appreciated the Governor for his support, stressing that the positive energy infused by the government into the team is yielding results and already sending positive vibes within the sporting world.
Hon. Enabulele attributed the recent stellar performance of Edo Queens at the recently concluded CAF Women’s Championship to the positive support from the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo.
He said the commission had carefully selected the management crew and new players based on their performance, competence, and capacity, assuring the government of improved results and promising to bring national and international glory to the state.
Speaking to newsmen, the trio of the management team assured the Governor and the people of Edo State of their commitment to ensuring that the state government’s investment in the clubs pays off by taking the clubs to both national and international glory.
They stressed that they were introducing a new strategy and play pattern that will not only bring medals and victories to the clubs but also offer fans and football lovers entertaining football to look forward to.
A highlight of the event was the unveiling of Austin Iyamu as Technical Director, Peter Obanor as Team Manager, and Greg Ikhenoba as substantive Coach of Bendel Insurance FC. Also unveiled were 13 new players added to Edo Queens FC to further strengthen them for the new season.
The defending champions of the Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL), Edo Queens, will kickstart their 2025 football season campaign today (Wednesday, 15th January 2025) at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, as they play host to Abia Angels FC.