The Bayelsa government on Monday declared that Bayelsa Queens and Bayelsa United football clubs would be given a rousing welcome to the state to celebrate their victory at the Aiteo cup.
Gov. Douye Diri, disclosed this when he visited the players and officials of the two teams at their camp in Benin City, shortly after their victories in the tournament.
A statement signed by Mr Doubara Atasi, Media Aide to Bayelsa Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, the governor stated that a public holiday would also be declared in their honour.
The two teams Bayelsa Queens and Bayelsa United, emerged Champions of the Men and Women’s competitions of the Aiteo Cup.
Diri, who was represented by his Deputy, praised the heroic achievements of the teams, describing them as heroes and heroines that Bayelsa people are proud of.
He attributed the victory by the two teams, Bayelsa Queens and Bayelsa United, to God and the dedication and commitment of the players and officials, as well as the prayers and support of the people of the state.
“His Excellency has promised to declare a Public Holiday in the state to receive and welcome you back home.
“I told you that the spirit of Bayelsa is never intimidated, never conquered. I told you that you will come to Benin with the spirit of the crocodile to conquer the land and the waters.
“I told you that you will come with the spirit of the power of the leopard. You have come, conquered and you have made us very proud.
“His Excellency said I should wish you all the best and send his congratulations to you. He has spoken to us all night. So, we are here as a mark of further support to you.
“So, relax and enjoy yourselves this night after your great achievements.
‘We want to give thanks and glory to God Almighty for this double victory. God has again performed His miracle. When we say we are the miracle Governor and Deputy Governor, People thought we were joking.
“We said we were coming to Benin to win the two Cups and that is what we have done. The Governor told me, go there, conquer and return and we have come, we have conquered and we are returning,”Ewhrudjakpo said.
Both state-owned male and female teams made history on Sunday at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, venue of the final match, by clinching the two trophies at stake.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalled that Bayelsa Queens defeated FC Robo Queens of Lagos 4-2, while Bayelsa United triumphed 4-3 on penalty shoot outs against Nasarawa United, after both teams battled to a thrilling 2-2 draw in regulation and extra time.
Diri, had among other promises, pledged to replace the aged buses that the teams used to participate in the competition if they won the trophies. (NAN)
