Cross River State government has focused renewed attention to the male and female football clubs owned by the state – Rivers FC and Pelican Stars – with a view to improving their statuses, welfare and finances
Chairman of the state sports commission, Mr. Etta Lawrence Itanya said Governor Baseey Otu met Rovers FC receiving ₦5 million monthly subvention but moved it up to ₦20 million.
“His Excellency increased it to N20 million,” Lawrence said, noting that the increment addressed players’ welfare challenges and improved morale.
He admitted that Rovers FC had fallen short of top-tier expectations but said reforms were underway.
“For football lovers, we would have loved to see Rovers at the top tier,” he said.
He disclosed that operations will no longer continue as business as usual.
Meanwhile, a statement signed by Mr. Etta Itanya, Chairman of the Cross River State Sports Commission, said the governor has approved the constitution of a new management for Pelican Stars Football Club as part of broader sports sector reforms.
The new management was expected to assume office immediately and align operations with the governor’s vision for sports development.
“This is to inform the general public and sporting community that His Excellency has approved the constitution of a new management for Pelican Stars,” the statement read.
Stakeholders, players, technical crew, and supporters were urged to accord the new management full cooperation.
To act as chairman is Mrs. Sofia Francis Aribiah and Mr. Johnson Eko as Vice Chairman.
Other members are Mr. Tom Aniah as Team Manager and Mr. Edem Umo Ephraim as Sporting Director.
Mr. Hodo Williams as Welfare Officer, Hon. Patrick Ifere as Member, and Mr. Ani Oku Ita as Member.
Additional members include Mr. Tom Melody Bassey, Mr. Eyo Eyo Yellowduke, with Mrs. Vivien Cocoma Inyang serving as Secretary.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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