By Our Correspondent

Governor Udom Emmanuel has received the commendation of Akwa United players, management and staff for contributing to the historic winning of the 2020/2021 Nigeria Professional Football League title.

Chairman of the club Elder Paul Bassey while sending off players of the team on a one week end of season break also expressed gratitude to God for protection, favour and traveling mercies throughout the season.

Elder Bassey showered praises on Governor Udom Emmanuel, whom he described as a sports loving governor.

“In Sports loving Governor Udom Emmanuel, we did not lack. We were privileged to operate in a state where workers welfare is second to none and salaries and allowances are promptly disbursed without fail, unlike in other states” the Chairman said.

In the Honourable Commissioner of Youth and Sports, Sir Monday Ebong Uko, the internationally acclaimed sports guru said he found a listening and pragmatic boss who will go any length to ensure victory.

The club boss commended all Akwa Ibom people, fans and supporters of the club from across the country for their incredible show of love to the team at the just concluded campaign.

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Sports also extended the club’s appreciation to NPFL Club Chairmen Association, the Sports Writers Association SWAN, and Coaches Association for their goodwill and congratulatory messages to Akwa United for lifting their maiden NPFL trophy.

Elder Bassey tasked the players to maintain high level of discipline and to be more professional in their dealings while on break.

“As you embark on this short break, remember that we have very little time to prepare for our first outing in Africa’s premier competition- the CAF Champions League, so we have to be ready to get back to work as soon as possible because we don’t have the luxury of time.

“For those players who are moving on, we wish them the best of luck, those who are retained are to ensure they return to camp on or before Sunday 15th August, as we hope to inject fresh legs and beef up our team for the enormous task in the continent because as NPFL Champions, much is expected from us at the continental level”.

Elder Bassey heaped praises on players and the technical crew led by Coach Kennedy Boboye, management and staff of the team for their unity of purpose, prayers and dedication towards the team’s success.

The club boss thanked the spiritual Fathers of the team who constantly stood in the gap for the team through their prayers throughout the season.