…Ready To Meet Banjul Hawks Of Gambia
By Akanimo Kufre
Recent class act and superlative performance of Akwa United Football Club has paid off with great a moral boosting deal. The team management led by Paul Bassey last Friday signed a multi-million naira sponsorship MOU deal with Dana Air which according to the club chairman has removed huge financial burden off the club.
Travelling for matches in Nigeria premier league has become the biggest challenge for coaches and their team. Just recently MFM was involved in road accident after Kwara United first had the ugly experience while the trauma affected performance and fear of travel.
The sponsorship deal covers all air transport cost to Akwa United within Dana Air routes in the country. Also the club will enjoy ‘Player of the Month’ cash award and trophy among other boasters.
“I’m happy to start with what is going to be a turning point in Nigerian football. Most challenging aspect of Nigerian league is the aspect of travel. Air travel is the safest. We are so relieved, worst to happen is that Dana can break our journey into two. We will give you value for your money.” Paul assured.
Keeping to their promise, Akwa United had requested their guest, Dana COO, Mr Obi Mbanuzo who was amazed by the superb facility of the stadium at Uyo to relax and watch the boys handle Wikki Tourist on Sunday.
Ubong Friday started the match on a brilliant noted with a 18th minute powerful header followed by Victor Mbaoma, Michael Ibe and Christian Pyagbara ended the party just the way it started with 4th goal about 89th minute.
The Dana Air Chief Operations Officer had earlier expressed that when the company need to give back encouragement to our local football, Akwa United was picked because of their track record.
“Every weekend people wake up to say English Premiership. We thought of what we can do to our local league. We approached other clubs but we asked who is number 1. We were told Akwa United. We are trying to encourage other corporate bodies to join and support, encourage the players as part of our corporate social responsibility. I am impressed with Akwa United stadium.” Mr. Mbanuzo commended
Coach Dickson in his vote of thanks thanked God for Akwa United being the foremost club with sponsorship deal. It is not as they say government dependent. Dana Air has brought us the light. Akwa will fly higher and higher with Dana Air. He assured Akwa Partner that the team will live up to expectations to promote their partnership.
Meanwhile, the strong man of the house credited with the highest number of club league goals, Coach Abdul Maikaba has credited the success on discipline and early travel cum rest.
Meanwhile, the team is ready to host the Banjul Hawks of Gambia on 11 February for CAF Confederation Cup preliminary as their advance team are expected in Nigeria from 7th of February.
