Stakeholders in Bayelsa State’s sports sector have praised the continuous progress and sustainability of Nigeria’s premier grassroots football tournament, the Prosperity Cup.
The Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament, known as the Prosperity Cup, will feature three categories in its seventh season: male, female, and para, with a total of 50 million naira in prize money.
Several stakeholders, in interviews with Prosperity Cup media, commended the governor for expanding the tournament, especially by including the women’s and para soccer competitions.
Dr. Kola Oredipe, Director of New Media to the governor, highlighted the tournament’s significant contribution to football in Nigeria, citing the governor’s “ASSURED” sports mantra as evidence of the administration’s passion for sports. Dr. Oredipe noted that the tournament has provided exposure for many youths in the state, with the governor giving premium attention to all sports over the past five years.
Tournament Director Mr. Perela Aboroson emphasized the positive impact of the Prosperity Cup on the lives of Bayelsa’s youths, noting that beyond trophy wins, the tournament offers young players a means of livelihood. Reflecting on past successes, Mr. Aboroson believes that the increased prize money will lead to unprecedented improvements in this edition.
Mr. Aboroson also revealed that five players from the tournament’s scouting program would be heading to Lithuania, Malta, and Turkey for better opportunities, and this year’s event will feature three professional players.
Former international Jossy Dombraye praised the tournament’s international appeal, stating that the 50 million naira prize underscores the governor’s commitment to making Bayelsa a sports hub. He remarked that the current generation of players is fortunate to have the governor’s cup and scouting programs.
Ladan Bosso, technical adviser to Bayelsa United, commended Governor Douye Diri for elevating the competition to a remarkable level, noting that the tournament is an excellent platform for scouting players from various local government areas. Bosso added that the tournament has kept youths engaged, resulting in reduced crime during its duration.
Bosso also highlighted that the increased prize money for the women’s tournament would boost interest in women’s football in Bayelsa, consolidating the achievements of Bayelsa Queens in Nigeria’s women’s football.
Ambassador Miebi Ogunu, a board member of Bayelsa United and President of the Independent Grassroots Development Association of Nigeria (IGDA), remarked that the Prosperity Cup has elevated grassroots players to new heights, describing the competition as a blessing to the nation. He added that the prize money would enhance team participation.
Ambassador Ogunu also urged multinational oil companies, financial institutions, the organized private sector, and well-meaning Bayelsans to support the tournament.
