By Amaechi Agbo

The Chairman of FCT Football Association, Adam Mouktar Mohammed has commended the duo of Abuja clubs, Road Safety FC and NAF FC despite their failure to gain promotion to the Nigeria Professional Football League, NPFL during the Nigeria National League Promotional playoff played across the country on Monday.

The two clubs represented the FCT in the NNL 2018/19 season and won their respective groups to qualify for the playoff.

However, despite raising the hopes of the FCT residents in seeing premier league match in the federal capital, the two teams lost out in the playoff.

Playing in Jos NAF FC lost 2-3 to Jigawa Golden Stars while Road Safety lost 1-2 to Adamawa United in another match decided at Apa Raku Stadium Jos, Plateau state.

In other results, 3SC lost 0-3 to Akwa Starlets in Asaba centre while Dynamite Force lost 3-5 on penalties against Warri Wolves.

Reacting to the no promotion of the Abuja clubs to the elite league, Mr Mouktar commended the two teams for reaching the playoff and advised them to hold their heads high.

Mr Mouktar who said it was unfortunate and painful that the expectations of the residents of the FCT was dashed in terms of seeing NPFL match in the capital, nonetheless added that the FA and entire football family in the federal capital stand with them.

“We must com​​mend both FCT teams for their zeal, determination and commitment for coming this far. Unfortunately painfully they did not get the promotion but we stand with them and call on all the management, technical crew, players and fans to not waiver in their determination for achieving sporting success. It’s never a do or die affair but a continuous work in progress.

“They deserve applause, respect and we hold them in high regard. They now should hold their heads up high. We as the FCT Football family we are 100% behind them and continue to support them in all ways. We get back to the drawing board and plan for next season! Thank you for all the prayers, support and contributions from all. God bless,” the FCT FA chairman said in a statement on Monday

Similarly, the FCT Football Coaches Association commended the two teams for reaching the playoff and expressed the belief that FCT will get the NPFL ticket soon and congratulated the teams’ management and players for their determination.

Chairman of the association, Mr Godwin Bamigboye, who spoke on behalf off his members said “NAF FC and FRSC FC could not get the NPFL ticket but we commend them for making it to the playoff. I believe the FCT will get it soon.

Congratulations to the Management, officials and players of NAF FC and FRSC FC. Thank you.”