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Government Confident of Bayelsa Queens’ CAF Victory
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
The Bayelsa State Government has expressed full confidence in the Bayelsa Queens Football Club, backing the team to emerge champions at the upcoming CAF Women’s Champions League.
The team will compete in the 5th WAFU Zone B Qualifiers in Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire, from Saturday, August 9 to Sunday, August 24, 2025, where they are scheduled to face Ghana’s Police Ladies and Ivorian side ASEC Mimosas.
Speaking at a lavish dinner held in honour of the team at the Golden Tulip Hotel in Yenagoa, Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, His Excellency Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, praised the team and expressed unshakable belief in their ability to bring home the trophy.
“If you don’t return with the CAF Women’s Championship trophy, it will only be because you chose not to,” the Deputy Governor declared confidently. “There is no team that can stop you.”
He urged the players to show tenacity, determination, and discipline, and to seek divine support for their efforts.
Senator Ewhrudjakpo emphasized that the government stands firmly behind the team and assured the players that any outstanding financial obligations would be settled before their departure.
In addressing the technical crew and management, the Deputy Governor charged them to maintain their current momentum, stating, “Anyone who knows their destination cannot get lost.” He encouraged them to stay focused on bringing the trophy back to Bayelsa State.
He further reassured the team that Governor Douye Diri would reward them handsomely upon his return, in recognition of the pride they have brought to the state.
As part of the evening’s highlights, six players received awards based on peer voting conducted under the supervision of Sports Commissioner, Hon. Dr. Daniel Baraladei Igali.
The Deputy Governor commended the initiative and called for the institutionalization of the awards as a yearly tradition, with possible extension to Bayelsa United in the future.
Award recipients include:
- Funniest Teammate: Arith Itu
- Best Teammate: Vera Samuel
- Best Defender: Jennifer Oliver
- Best Goalkeeper: Monle Omini
- Best Midfielder and MVP: Doshima Tannum
Each awardee received a cash prize of ₦50,000, while MVP Doshima Tannum received ₦100,000.
The Deputy Governor, in a gesture of humility, personally served players and guests at the buffet, likening his service to the Biblical example of Christ washing His disciples’ feet.
The night ended on a celebratory note with dancing and camaraderie. Club Chairman, Pastor Robin Apreala, in his vote of thanks, promised that the team would return victorious, bringing the CAF Women’s Champions League trophy back to Bayelsa.
