Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has lauded Rangers International Football Club of Enugu for clinching the 2023/24 Nigeria Premier Football League title with one game remaining.
His congratulatory message came in the wake of the team’s 2-0 triumph over Bendel Insurance Football Club at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu, on Sunday.
Kenechukwu Agu’s goal in the 33rd minute and Chidiebere Nwobodo’s strike in the 65th minute secured the Fidelis Ilechukwu-led team their eighth league title, marking their second since 2016.
Their nearest challengers, Remo Stars and Enyimba Football Club, both suffered 1-2 defeats to Sunshine Stars and Sporting Lagos, respectively, in their match-day 37 encounters, leaving the Flying Antelopes with an unassailable 67-point lead with one match remaining.
Addressing the press on Sunday, Mbah emphasized that Rangers’ title victory and performance were vivid reenactments of the historical excellence associated with Enugu State.
He promised that his administration would allocate more resources to enhance sports development in the state.
“I can tell you that the government and people of Enugu State are very excited. What we have witnessed here this evening is the reenactment of the greatness that Enugu is known for,” he remarked.
“Part of what I said to the players before the match started was that they had the weight of history on their shoulders because they were walking the path legends had walked and that it was incumbent on them to deliver.
“I’m so excited again that this has happened.
“Indeed, our tomorrow is here. It is again part of connecting the dots in the sports sector. As you already know, we want to be number one in everything we do.
“So, we have zero tolerance for failure or mediocrity and our work ethic is impeccable,” Mbah stated.
He affirmed that the state would maintain this path, ensuring a robust reward system and motivating the players to strive for more victories.
On the subject of sports infrastructure, he said, “You would attest to the fact that getting our pitch back in shape immediately after we assumed office to enable Rangers to play their home matches here at The Cathedral was a huge motivation for the players.
“But I want to assure Enugu people that they have not seen anything yet. As you are aware, our goal is a total turnaround of the sports industry in the state.
“This includes the sports infrastructure, building world-class facilities and upgrading existing ones to a world-class standard.”
