The sport-loving governor of Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has gifted each player of Rivers United $20,000 for winning the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL)
The players have also been promised a two-week vacation for pre-season training in Madrid Spain, ahead of their CAF Champions League engagement.
Players, coaches, and management of the club were also conferred with the state’s ‘Governor Medal Service Award.’
Wike made the promise during a reception at the Government House, Port Harcourt on Thursday when receiving the players and their management. He acknowledged the team’s sacrifice, determination, and hard work throughout the 2021/22 season.
“Each of you will go home with $20,000. For me, you deserve more than that, but because of the economy. If not, you deserve more than this.
“You have done well, and let me tell you if you qualify in the group stage of this CAF (Confederation of African Football) competition, we will double it for you,” the statement quoted the Governor as saying.
Meanwhile, Wike has directed the state’s Commissioner of Sports, Chris Green, to arrange for a two-week training session for Rivers United in Madrid.
The Governor explained that the government and people of Rivers were delighted that the club won the coveted NPFL trophy.
Wike thanked the players for winning the league with as many as 10 points, saying they made it very difficult for anyone to rob them of their success.
“I am not surprised because I saw your dedication and commitment and I knew that he who works hard, God will always give him the support to emerge victorious,” Wike added.
The Governor also urged the players to start preparing for the CAF Champions League next season.
“You need to be prepared psychologically to face other competitors. We are talking about Africa, not West Africa. So, you have such a huge task.
“You must be prepared to achieve. And so, on our own as government, we must do everything humanly possible to encourage you,” he stated
The Rivers State Commissioner of Sports, Chris Green, explained that Rivers United did not only win the league season in style, but they also broke all the records.
Green, who attributed the team’s victory to the governor’s immense support, said the club had the first and third highest goal scorers, best coach, and goalkeeper in the league.