BENIN CITY, Edo State — Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has rewarded Edo Queens with N50 million following their impressive triumph in the 2026 WAFU-B Women’s Champions League.
Okpebholo announced the cash reward on Tuesday during a ceremony at the Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City, where the team presented the 2025/26 Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) title and the 2026 WAFU-B Women’s Champions League trophy.
Edo Queens secured the WAFU-B title after a dramatic 2-2 draw with Ghanaian side, Ampem Darkoa Ladies, at regulation time before emerging victorious 4-1 on penalties.
The governor praised the players for their determination, resilience and fighting spirit throughout the competition, describing their achievement as significant to both Edo State and Nigeria.
Okpebholo said he was confident the team would prevail during the penalty shootout after observing the composure and strategy of the goalkeeper.
He particularly praised the goalkeeper’s movements and efforts to distract the Ghanaian penalty takers, noting that her saves proved crucial to the team’s victory.
“For me, this cup matters to Edo people and it matters to the country.
“I must commend the players for their doggedness. I also want to thank the coaching crew and other officials.
“I want to reward the team with the sum of N50 million,” the governor said.
Okpebholo also commended the coaching crew, technical team and other officials for their contributions to the success of the team.
He further praised the Edo Broadcasting Service (EBS) for televising the decisive match live, saying the broadcast allowed more Nigerians to witness and celebrate the team’s historic achievement.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Edo Sports Commission, Amadin Enabulele, commended Edo Queens for their outstanding performance throughout the season.
Enabulele said winning both the NWFL and WAFU-B championship in the same season was a remarkable achievement that demonstrated the team’s grit, discipline, unity and resilience.
“Our girls have truly done us proud. To win the Nigeria Women’s Football League and the WAFU-B championship in the same season is no small feat.
“It requires grit, unity, discipline, resilience and an unshakeable belief in oneself.
“I am particularly proud of the new management for not only keeping the flame burning but also raising the standard even higher,” he said.
He also commended the coaches, technical crew and management of Edo Queens for their sacrifices and commitment, saying they carried the hopes and aspirations of Edo people throughout the competition.
The Chairman of Bendel Insurance Football Club, Jarrett Tenebe, described the players as “warriors” and expressed confidence that the team could conquer Africa sooner than expected with continued support and motivation from the state government.
Tenebe also said meaningful youth engagement could address a significant proportion of security challenges in the state, noting that the governor’s increased attention to youth development would help curb crime and criminality.
The presentation ceremony further underscored the Edo State Government’s commitment to sports development and the empowerment of young people through football.
