A significant development comes from Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State, who has decided to increase the monthly subvention to the state-owned Rovers Football Club from N5m to N10m.
The governor made this remarkable 100 percent raise during a recent visit by the club and its technical team to him.
His decision to double the subvention illustrates a keen commitment to revitalizing football and sports in general within the state, emphasizing a more business-oriented approach to football management.
In addition to this increment, Governor Otu has pledged to provide the team with a brand-new bus by 2025, along with addressing other pressing issues facing the football club.
Expressing his appreciation, he commended Rovers’ goalkeeper, 18-year-old Clinton Andy, for proudly representing Cross River at the international level with Nigeria’s under 20 national team, bringing honor to the state.
He further extended his best wishes for the players, urging both the staff and players of Rovers Football Club to redouble their efforts in restoring the Club to its former glory as a prominent force in Nigerian football.
In a gesture of care, the governor has instructed immediate medical attention for all injured footballers within the team.
According to the Commissioner for Sports Development, Mrs. Agnes Atsu, the visit of the players to the governor was prompted by the need to address several challenges affecting Rovers Football Club, which is currently five games away from completing the Nigerian National Football League.
Rovers’ captain, Inyang Asuquo, outlined some of the issues they are facing, including insufficient funding, a dilapidated team bus, inadequate medical care for players, and financial support for player camps, among others.
In light of these challenges, the captain conveyed his gratitude to the governor for the increased subvention for the team.