The Kogi Government has presented a new 32-seater Coastal bus to Confluence Queens Football Club, as part of efforts to enhance the team’s mobility and performance.
Gov. Ahmed Ododo, represented by the Commissioner for Information, Mr Kingsley Fanwo, presented keys of the bus to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Sports, Mr Aziz Momoh, on Sunday in Lokoja.
The governor said that the gesture underscored the administration’s commitment to sports development, particularly women’s football.
He noted that the team had faced transportation challenges over the years, adding that the government acted promptly to address the situation upon becoming aware of it.
Ododo also commended the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Mr Monday Anyebe, for his dedication toward the realisation of the project, describing it as part of the state’s broader rebranding agenda.
According to him, the initiative is aimed at improving the image of Kogi sports teams nationwide, expressing confidence that Confluence Queens would represent the state creditably.
In his remarks, Momoh expressed appreciation to the government and assured that the team would reciprocate the gesture by making the state proud.
Also speaking, Mr Abdulmalik Isah, the Chairman of Kogi United and Confluence Queens, commended the governor for addressing a long-standing need, while highlighting challenges in players’ welfare.
He stressed the need for improved support systems to enable the teams compete favourably with their counterparts across the country.
Mrs Oluwatosin Ojo, the Team Manager of Confluence Queens, lauded the governor’s intervention, noting that it reflected commitment to gender inclusion in sports.
She, however, appealed for similar support for Kogi United, particularly the provision of a coastal bus for the male team.
Ojo also called for increased government support to boost team morale and enhance performance.
On her part, the team captain, Martha Ozozomata, who spoke on behalf of Captain Awayi Abdullahi, appreciated the governor and appealed for improved welfare packages for players.
Responding, Fanwo assured the teams of the government’s continued support, describing the governor as a sports enthusiast.
He urged the teams to formally document their challenges for necessary action, while encouraging the players to remain focused and repay the gesture with improved performance in upcoming matches.
