At the glittering third edition of the Soccer Queens Awards in Benin City, Moses Nagogo Bako—who heads the women’s‑football news and promotion outfit Soccer Queens—extended a heartfelt thank‑you to the Edo State Sports Commission for its cooperation. “It is a privilege to welcome you to the third edition of the Soccer Queens Awards,” Bako said, celebrating the women who light up the Nigeria Women’s Football League across its three tiers—Premiership, Championship and Nationwide.

He used the moment to plead for the Commission’s backing for two Edo‑based clubs, Fortress Ladies and Bravehearts FC, describing them as “feeders” that could supply the state’s elite women’s side with homegrown talent. “Fortress Ladies have not yet earned promotion, but with the support of the State Sports Commission they can break into the NWFL Premiership,” Bako explained, noting that a boost would see Edo join Lagos (FC Robo, Dannaz Ladies) and Abia (Abia Angels, Ahudiyannem Queens) with two clubs each in the top flight.

Bako’s speech highlighted the broader vision of the awards: “When we launched this ceremony three years ago, our goal was simple—to shine a spotlight on athletes who give their all on the pitch, often in the shadow of the men’s game. Today that vision is thriving—Premiership stars inspire the next generation, Championship trailblazers break barriers, and Nationwide participants prove talent can emerge from the corners of our country.”

He thanked partners, sponsors, clubs and coaches for nurturing the athletes, and congratulated the nominees and winners, urging them to let the spirit of Soccer Queens propel them to greater heights.