From Abel Leonard, Lafia
Following Nasarawa United’s promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), key sports stakeholders have poured encomiums on the team for their remarkable accomplishment. Their unwavering dedication, teamwork, and skill, coupled with significant support from Governor Abdullahi Sule, were highlighted as the driving forces behind their success.
The State’s Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Jafaru Ango in an interview yesterday expressed his gratitude after the Solid Miners’ decisive 2-1 victory over Sporting Supreme on Wednesday morning at ‘The Cathedral’ Stadium, Enugu. He attributed the victory to divine providence and the governor’s steadfast support.
“We thank God for the opportunity given to us to win this game and gain promotion to the NPFL,” Ango stated. “I also want to appreciate our amiable Governor, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, for being with us always, regardless of the circumstances.”
Hon. Ango also lauded the players, coaches, and supporters, acknowledging their tremendous effort and dedication. “You have done wonderfully and fantastically well. May God continue to bless your efforts,” he added. He had earlier donated N300,000 to boost the team’s morale during the Super Eight playoffs.
Similarly, Nasarawa State Football Association Chairman, Salisu Galadima ‘Basira’, praised the governor’s proactive role in securing the NPFL ticket. “I acknowledge the huge efforts of the Management and Staff of Nasarawa United for making us proud through this achievement,” he said. Galadima announced a donation of N500,000 to the players and N150,000 to the Supporters’ Club, reinforcing the FA’s unwavering support for the team. “Rest assured that the Football Association is always behind you wherever you are going,” he assured the players.
A fervent supporter of the Solid Miners, Okechukwu Igbokwe, alongside friends Ikenna Chukwude and Olisa Kingsley, visited the team’s hotel in Enugu and donated N100,000, promising further support for the team’s success in the Super Eight Play-offs.
Nasarawa United Chairman, Dr. Othman Ahmed Ibrahim, described the atmosphere as ‘historic’ and ‘remarkable’. He praised the collective efforts that led to the team’s success, highlighting Governor Sule’s indispensable support.
“We started this journey with an empty bus, but today, the bus is overloaded with victory,” Ibrahim remarked. He thanked the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, the Permanent Secretary, and the Ministry staff for their consistent support.
The Solid Miners, coached by Usman Adams, secured their NPFL promotion by winning all three games in their Northern Conference Group, topping the standings with nine points. They defeated El-Kanemi Warriors 1-0, Sokoto United 2-1, and Sporting Supreme 2-1.
Sun reports that Nasarawa United is set to face Ogun State-based Beyond Limits Football Academy, who topped the Southern Conference table, in the Super Eight final on Thursday, 13th June 2024, at ‘The Cathedral’ Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu. The winners will receive a prize of N5,000,000.