The Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has awarded Stanley Nwabali, the Super Eagles goalkeeper, with a N20,000,000 reward and the prestigious Distinguished Service Star of the state.
This announcement came during a reception hosted by the governor on Friday, February 16, to honor Nwabali’s participation in the recently concluded 2023 African Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.
Governor Fubara also extended a N30,000,000 gift to the Super Eagles’ support staff present at the event. In recognition of their triumph in the Louis Edem National League competition, he granted the Rivers Hoopers Basketball Team a N50,000,000.
In a statement by the governor’s media aide, Boniface Onyedi, the governor emphasized his administration’s dedication to promoting effective governance and administrative efficiency, aiming to provide Rivers residents with opportunities that bring honor and dignity.
He underscored his commitment to fostering an enabling environment that encourages the people of Rivers state to support his efforts in reshaping the global perception of the state.
The governor praised Nwabali’s exceptional performance as a Rivers native and his contribution to the Super Eagles squad during the AFCON, which brought pride to Nigeria.
He said, “I want to join the great and wonderful people of Rivers State to congratulate you, our brother Stanley Nwabali and our wonderful team.
“We are here again in just about four months after you won a local trophy.
“Today, you have brought a national trophy. So, when people say or talk behind us to ask what we are doing, we are achieving those things that are not, maybe, seen physically but they give joy and fulfilment.
“If we have not encouraged you in a way that motivated you, you won’t be where you are. So, it is part of purposeful governance and administrative efficiency.
“So, I want to thank you and assure you that we will continue to do our best.”
The governor encouraged residents of Rivers to persistently engage in positive endeavors that enhance the state’s reputation and garner respect.
Meanwhile, Christopher Green, the state’s Commissioner for Sports, praised Governor Fubara for his backing, which inspired the Rivers Hoopers Basketball Team to secure the national league championship.
Also speaking, Chief Adokiye Amiesimaka, a former Commissioner for Justice and a former Super Eagles player, acknowledged the significance of sports development in the state. He commended Fubara for his decisive leadership.
