Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru
has rewarded each of the Abakaliki FC players with N1 million following their sensational second-place finish in the 2025 President Federation Cup.
The team, numbering over 36, was led to the reception by Club Chairman, Senator Obinna Ogba, and the State Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Prince Richard Idike.
Abakaliki FC fell 4-3 on penalties to Kwara United in the final after a goalless regulation time at the Lagos showdown last Saturday.
Despite the loss, the newcomers stunned Nigeria’s football scene with victories over heavyweights like Enyimba, Nasarawa United, Katsina United, and Ikorodu City — earning a N20 million prize for reaching the final.
The governor also donated cash gifts to club officials, supporters, and sports journalists who followed the team throughout the tournament.
He said: "N1 million each for all players and coaches, salaries paid until November for old players, ₦500,000 each to non-technical staff, ₦4 million to the supporters club and ₦1 million to SWAN Ebonyi"
In his remarks, Governor Nwifuru extolled the players' efforts and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining the club.
He expressed optimism that Abakaliki FC would avoid relegation next season, win the Federation Cup trophy, and gain international recognition, having carved a niche for themselves within just seven months of formation.
“This team has made history. The future is bright. Ebonyi will continue to rise through sports; indeed, I admired their physical and tactical disposition at the football pitch during their final competition with Kwara United. I watched them live, and I was highly impressed, despite they lost the trouphy during the penalty shootout,” the governor declared.
Post a Comment