Heartland Queens head coach, Benjamin Nwoke has called on the Imo State Government to come to the rescue of the team to ensure they remain in the Nigeria Women Football League Premiership beyond this season.
The Owerri Ladies were beaten 2-0 by Naija Ratels on Thursday in a league game after they threatened to walk out on the game due to unpaid salaries and Nwoke told journalists that they will need the support of Governor Hope Uzodinma to help revitalise the team again.
He said he has the players to keep the state in the premiership but that they must be made happy by ensuring that their welfare is taking seriously to prevent what happened before the home loss to Naija Ratels.
“We are not happy to lose at home because we worked so hard before the start of the game. It was so painful what happened before the start of the game and it will help the team if it us addressed by our amiable Governor, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma,” Nwoke told journalists.
“It will be of help if the Imo Government can help offset some of salaries they are owed. We are ready to work but seeing to the girls welfare will help their minds to be focused on the game and nothing else.”
Reacting, the Imo State Commissioner for Sports, Youth and Social Development, Honourable Emeka Okoronkwo said the Heartland Queens players will receive part of their salaries this week. He reiterated the Imo Government desire to empower Imo girls through sports and that their welfare is government’s priority.
He said Imo Government is eager to bring back smile to the players faces and that ensuring that they remain in the topflight is of importance.
