Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to positioning the state as a hub for local and international sporting events. This declaration comes after the successful hosting of an international friendly match between Nigeria and Cameroon at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta, where the Super Falcons defeated the Lionesses 2-0.
The governor expressed his delight with the outcome of the match and highlighted the significance of the event in showcasing the state’s capabilities in hosting high-level sports engagements. He emphasized that the newly renovated MKO Abiola Sports Arena would serve not only as a platform for nurturing youth potential but also as a unifying symbol across Nigeria. According to Abiodun, sporting events provide a rare avenue for national unity, transcending tribal, religious, and regional barriers. “There is nothing in Nigeria that unites us like sports. It breaks barriers of tribe, religion, or region. For those 90 minutes, no one remembers if he is Yoruba, Igbo, or Hausa – we are all Nigerians.”
The governor revealed that more events are lined up for the arena, including the U-18 and U-20 African Athletics Championships and the WAFU regional competitions. He expressed confidence that these events would further demonstrate the state’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for a thriving sports economy. “We are determined to create an enabling environment for a thriving sports economy. What you are seeing now is just the beginning,” Abiodun said.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) also commended the governor’s gesture, describing it as a motivation for the players. A total of N30m was awarded to the two national teams in appreciation of their performance, with the Super Falcons receiving N20m and the visiting Lionesses receiving N10m. The NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, stated that the financial incentive would serve as an added psychological boost for the players. “The financial incentive has been well-received by the team, and I believe this is an added psychological boost apart from the victory over the Cameroonians,” Sanusi said.
The match served as part of the Super Falcons’ build-up to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final in Morocco, where Nigeria is grouped alongside Tunisia, Botswana, and Algeria. With the upcoming tournament, the Super Falcons are expected to showcase their skills and determination on the international stage. The support from Governor Abiodun and the Ogun State government is seen as a significant morale booster for the team as they prepare for the challenge ahead.
