Obaseki calls for increased private sector participation as third BOWFT set for kickoff

Edo’ First Lady, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki (second right); Special Adviser on Strategy, Policy, Projects and Performance Management, Sarah Esangbedo Ajose-Adeogun (right); and Executive Chairman, Edo State Sports Commission, Yusuf Ali (left), at the unveiling of the official mascot/ draws for the third in Benin City… on Friday.

.Edo first lady rewards Sheroes Champions

Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, has assured followers of women soccer that the Betsy Obaseki Women Football Tournament (BOWFT) would continue to grow in numbers and influence beyond the current administration in the state.

Mrs. Obaseki, who called on more private sector support for the competition, noted that the tournament has kept pushing for the development of Nigeria’s girl child, using football as a platform.

Speaking at the mascot unveiling and draw for the 2023 BOWFT, themed, ‘End Gender-Based Violence,’ in Benin City on Friday, Obaseki assured participants and fans of adequate security and conducive atmosphere for the competition, which will feature 13 teams drawn from across the country.

In the draws held inside Government House, Benin,
Edo Queens, Naija Ratels are Remo Stars are in Group A; Nasarawa Amazons, Bayelsa Queens, and Confluence Queens make up Group B; defending champions, FC Robo, Fortress FC, Heartland Queens and Rivers Angels are in Group C, while Group D comprises Delta Queens, Ekiti Queens and Osun Babes FC.

Mrs. Obaseki noted that since its first edition, the tournament has continued to grow to the extent that world football governing body, FIFA, has recognised its impact in rl/child development.

She said: “This tournament is private sector-driven and it has nothing to do with the Edo State Government; it will continue to be held