A triumph that lifts Edo football to continental spotlight

A wave of celebration swept through Benin City on Monday as Edo State marked a defining moment in its sporting history. The spotlight fell on the women of Edo Queens after their commanding success in West Africa.

At a reception held inside the Festival Hall, Government House, Governor Godwin Obaseki announced a ₦100 million cash reward for the team.

The gesture followed their dominant run at the 2024 WAFU-B Women's Champions League qualifiers in Côte d’Ivoire.

The champions secured a 3–0 victory over Ainonvi FC of Benin Republic in the final in Abidjan.

That win sealed their place in the CAF inter-club competition later this year.

Edo Queens WAFU-B Champions League win marks historic run

The Edo side did not just win the title. They controlled the tournament from start to finish.

They played five matches. They won all five.
They scored 14 goals. They conceded only once.

Their only defensive lapse came in a 2–1 win over Inter D’Abidjan.

The performance adds to an already impressive domestic record.
The team previously won the Sheroes Cup, Betsy Obaseki Cup, and the NWFL Premiership title.

This makes them one of Nigeria’s most consistent women’s teams in recent years.

Obaseki praises progress and promises continued support

Governor Obaseki described the victory as part of a wider transformation in Edo sports.

He said the success reflects years of investment in youth and women’s football.

“Before now, there was little recognition for Edo women in sports,” he said. “That has changed.”

He linked the achievement to sustained funding and policy support over the past eight years.

He also congratulated the players and encouraged them to target continental glory in the upcoming CAF competition.

“I will not say what comes next in rewards,” he added. “But you have made Edo and Nigeria proud.”

The governor’s remarks were delivered during a reception marking Edo State’s anniversary celebrations.

Coach Aduku credits funding and preparation

Head coach Moses Aduku praised government support, especially the swift release of funds before the tournament.

He said financial backing boosted team morale and preparation.

“We went in as underdogs,” he said. “But belief and support carried us through.”

Aduku added that the team’s early preparation for the CAF Women’s Champions League is already underway.

He described the next stage as tougher but achievable with the right preparation.

“We want to bring another trophy home,” he said.

Broader context: rise of women’s club football in Nigeria

Edo Queens’ success comes amid growing investment in women’s football across Nigeria.

State-backed clubs have begun to challenge traditional dominance in the NWFL.

The trend reflects wider continental changes, where women’s club competitions are gaining visibility and funding.

Edo’s model is now being closely watched as a possible blueprint for development.

what comes next for Edo Queens

The ₦100 million reward signals both recognition and expectation.

Edo Queens now shift focus to continental competition in Egypt.

Their performance in West Africa has raised expectations at home and abroad.

Consistency, preparation, and squad depth will determine how far they go next.