Nasarawa State Government says its commitment to prompt payment of male and female footballers’ emoluments and allowances boosts their morale on the field of play.
The Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr Bamaiyi Anangba,  made the assertion while speaking with newsmen in Lafia yesterday
According to him, the government’s commitment to players’ welfare had encouraged both the male team, Nasarawa United FC and the female, Nasarawa Amazons FC  to put up impressive performances.
“His Excellency has made the welfare of both teams a priority. He has already fulfilled his promise by paying their sign-on fees and the money was paid to them in full.
“You can see their recent performances. It’s a major improvement,’’ he said.
He also explained that the players’ attitude buoyed the government to ensure that both teams go the extra mile to attain laudable heights.
“The management, coach and players of Nasarawa United are eager to win something this season and play continental football.
“Likewise, Nasarawa Amazons, who have been coming second for the past seasons have said that anything less than being champions, is not good enough.
“Imagine the governor hearing such commitments and seeing the players working hard to achieve their goals.
“The governor would not want to be held responsible for any shortcoming. That is why their welfare is taken very seriously so that they can make the state proud,’’ he said.
Anangba held the view that players’ welfare should receive priority attention if the best should be expected from the teams.
“What mostly affects a team today is when you have their welfare and you are not giving them in due time, you will find it very difficult for them to play for you.
“As you can see, both teams’ recent performances are good,’’ the commissioner added.
Anangba said that plans were underway to inject new players into the teams to enhance their current performances.
“I want to tell you with all seriousness, that as we are resuming on May 21, you will see that we will be up and doing and we seriously thank the governor for all his support.
“He is one of the few governors sponsoring both male and female teams in the premier league,’’ he said.