The local organising committee (LOC) of the yearly Betsy Obaseki Women Football Tournament (BOWFT), has certified the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin, and the other venues chosen for the competition as in good condition for the kickoff of the competition. The tournament is scheduled to begin on October 23 with 13 participating teams from across the country.
Speaking after inspecting the designated centres, Head of Facility Sub-Committee for the tournament, Victor Edokpaiyi, said all the facilities are in top shape for the competition, which will also be used to campaign against gender-based violence. Apart from Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, other venues for the competition are the University of Benin Sports Complex, Western Boys Mini Stadium, University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) and Edo State School of Health Technology Mini Stadium.
Earlier, Chairman, BOWFT’s Communication Sub-Committee, Crusoe Osagie, said that this year’s tournament would boost the state government’s campaign to end gender-based violence. Osagie said that preparations are in top gear for the tournament, noting that the 2023 edition would highlight efforts to end gender-based violence in the state.
He said that as part of the build up to the tournament, the match venues would be inspected today, while the event would commence on October 23 with 13 participating teams. According to Osagie, 11 of the participating teams will come from the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), while the best two women teams from Edo State would complete the cast.
“A seminar will be held as a sideline event for the tournament on October 31, 2023. Invited first ladies from the 36 States of the federation will attend the event. The seminar will highlight efforts made by the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration in the past seven years to end gender-based violence.”
“The tournament, which has been accredited by football governing body, FIFA, will serve as an avenue to groom the girl-child and give them support to thrive in their endeavours. The Obaseki-led administration has made commendable efforts in grooming the girl-child with the strategic implementation of policy reforms in education, job creation and the sports sectors.
“The tournament, which has been accredited by football governing body, FIFA, will serve as an avenue to groom the girl-child and give them support to thrive in their endeavours. The Obaseki-led administration has made commendable efforts in grooming the girl-child with the strategic implementation of policy reforms in education, job creation and the sports sectors.”
Source: The Guardian
