Governor Francis Nwifuru has rewarded 34 registered players of Abakaliki Football Club with ₦1 million each after they emerged as the runners-up in the 2025 President Federation Cup on June 28.

They lost the final 3–4 on penalties to Kwara United at the Mobolaji Johnson Stadium, Lagos, following a goalless draw.

The eight-month-old club became the giant-killers of the competition after defeating big names such as Enyimba FC of Aba and Nasarawa United of Lafia, among others, en route to the final.

Mr Nwifuru, while receiving the players in his office in Abakaliki, also announced a reward of ₦1 million for the head coach and ex-international, Ifeanyi Onyedika.

“16 officials of the team will receive ₦500,000 each, while its supporters club will receive ₦4 million. The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) Ebonyi chapter will also receive N1 million for effective coverage of the team’s activities,” he said.

The governor congratulated the team on the achievement, noting that they had made the government and the people of Ebonyi extremely proud.

“I watched the match live and your performance made me believe that our investment in the team was worth it. The performance was so convincing that you will become the salt of world football one day.

“The technicality you displayed on the pitch and the passion embodied in the team’s anthem were thought-provoking and highly encouraging,” he said.

He, however, rued the team’s “sad” relegation from the Nigeria National League to Nationwide League One.

“I blame the coach because if the team had displayed the sort of performance we saw in Lagos, it could have finished among the top four in the league.

“You could have put confusion in Nigerian football if you won the Federation Cup because a relegated team should ordinarily not play in the Confederation of African Football competition.

“I, however, assure you that we would explore available opportunities to ensure that you remain in the NNL,” he said.

Mr Nwifuru urged the officials to ensure better preparations for the next football season and asked them to give the players a one-month recess.

“I promise to be visible in your matches next season and be more involved in the team’s affairs,” he said.

(NAN)