Abdallah Leads Rousing Welcome as Edo Queens Return WAFU-B Champions

By Rosemary Okoduwa

The Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has joined government officials, All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders, support groups and citizens in giving a rousing welcome to Edo Queens Football Club following their outstanding triumph at the West African Football Union Zone B (WAFU-B) Tournament.

The victorious team arrived in Edo through the Benin Airport on Monday to a jubilant reception led by government officials and supporters, who gathered to celebrate the historic achievement and honour the players for their remarkable performance on the regional stage.

Edo Queens defeated Ghana’s Ampem Darkoa Ladies Football Club 4–1 on penalties to emerge champions of the WAFU-B tournament, further establishing the team as one of the leading women’s football clubs in the West African region.

Leading the management and staff of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to the airport, the Commissioner, Hon. Eugenia Abdallah, commended the players, coaches and management of Edo Queens for their exceptional performance, determination and resilience throughout the tournament.

Hon. Abdallah congratulated the team for making Edo State and Nigeria proud, describing the victory as a source of inspiration to young girls and women across the state. She said the achievement demonstrated the immense talent, discipline and potential of Edo women and girls when provided with the right platform and support to excel.

The Commissioner also congratulated the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his administration’s commitment to sports development and its efforts to create opportunities for youths and women to thrive. She noted that the success of Edo Queens transcended football, describing it as a powerful symbol of female empowerment, resilience, teamwork and excellence.

She urged the players to remain focused, disciplined and committed to excellence, while encouraging them to continue serving as positive role models and sources of inspiration to young girls across Edo State and Nigeria.

Following the colourful airport reception, the victorious team proceeded to the New Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City, where they were formally received by Governor Monday Okpebholo at a special reception organised in their honour. The event attracted government officials, supporters and other stakeholders who celebrated the team’s historic achievement.

Hon. Abdallah reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote the development, empowerment and advancement of women and girls in Edo State, stressing that the Edo Queens’ WAFU-B triumph had provided yet another opportunity to showcase the strength, talent and determination of Edo women on the regional stage.