Abakaliki FC Captain Appreciates Governor Nwifuru’s ₦1 Million Reward Despite Federation Cup Loss
Despite Federation Cup loss, Abakaliki FC celebrates Governor Nwifuru’s unexpected cash gifts and support.
Players, coaches rewarded generously as Ebonyi vows to retain club in Nigeria’s second-tier league.
Although Abakaliki FC fell short in the 2025 President’s Federation Cup final, captain Cyril Timothy commended Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru for his generous post-match gesture that uplifted the spirits of players, coaches, and fans alike. The club, known as the Rice Boys, narrowly lost to top-flight side Kwara United, with a score of 4–3 on penalties after a goalless draw in regulation time at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos. However, the heartbreaking defeat did not deter the governor from celebrating his state’s underdog team.
During a state banquet on Monday night at the Government House in Abakaliki, Governor Nwifuru surprised the team by announcing ₦1 million cash rewards for every player and coach who participated in the final. This gesture was met with overwhelming gratitude, especially considering the club’s recent relegation to the Nationwide League One (NLO). Additionally, the governor pledged to continue covering full salaries and allowances for the players and officials until November 2025, ensuring stability and motivation during what may be a challenging period for the club.
Governor Nwifuru broadened the rewards to include the wider Abakaliki FC family. Non-technical staff received ₦500,000 each, and ₦4 million was donated to the Supporters Club. The Ebonyi State chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) was also awarded ₦1 million, highlighting the governor’s appreciation for their role in promoting local football.
In a further commitment to the team’s future, Governor Nwifuru announced that Abakaliki FC would not be relegated to the NLO, despite its current position. Instead, the state government plans to purchase a new slot in the Nigeria National League (NNL) to keep the club in the second division. “We didn’t win the cup, yet he still did all this for us. Just imagine what would have happened if we had won,” said an emotional Cyril Timothy, fondly known as Apirioye.
“The most important thing is his promise to buy an NNL slot so that we can still play in the NNL next season. We can’t thank him enough.”
Despite missing out on lifting the Federation Cup, Governor Nwifuru’s interventions have created a clear path to recovery and provided a morale boost for the team and its fans. The rewards not only recognise the team’s impressive journey to the final but also serve as a crucial support system as the club prepares for a new league structure, whether it is retained in the NNL or acquired through a newly allocated slot. For Captain Timothy and his teammates, the governor’s support has transformed a moment of heartbreak into one of renewed hope.
