NFF, Ex-Internationals, Others Laud Diri as Crusaders FC Win Prosperity Cup

Olusegun Samuel  in Yenagoa

President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, ex-international, Tarila Okorowanta and many others have lauded the Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, for his “outstanding contributions” to the growth of grassroots football in Nigeria. 

While the NFF boss urged other Nigerian leaders to emulate the Bayelsa governor in developing football and other sports in general, Okorowanta urged him to use the tournament as a turnaround for the youths in the state.

Gusau stated this when he led a delegation of the federation on a courtesy visit to Diri shortly after witnessing the Bayelsa Governor’s Prosperity Cup final which held at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex in Yenagoa, on Sunday.

He said it was first of its kind to have 214 teams and more than 5,000 players participate in one football tournament.

The NFF president  alongside  Chairman of the Nigerian National League (NNL), Mr. George Aluo, presented an award to Governor Diri for promoting grassroots football in the state.

In the final match on Sunday, Crusaders Feeders FC of Peretorugbene emerged champions of the 5th edition of Nigeria’s biggest grassroots football spectacle the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament christened the Prosperity Cup.

The Ekeremor side defeated De Grace FC of Yenagoa 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation time.

Earlier in the women’s final, Golden Sun Sports Academy spanked Crystal Stars FC 3-0 to win the maiden women’s Prosperity Cup trophy.

Declaring the tournament closed, Governor Diri said the competition was in celebration of talents, passion and the unifying power of football, noting that he was proud of the players, officials and organisers for the incredible organizations of the competition.

Also at the final were NFF’s Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, NNL Chief Executive Officer, Emmanuel Attah, and Chief Operating Officer Emmanuel Adesanya. Bendel Insurance Head Coach, Monday Odigie, was also at the final.