By Augustine Akanigha
In the world of professional football, the prompt payment of players’ salaries is crucial for maintaining morale, motivation, and overall team performance. Based on these values, the general manager of Delta Queens football club ” The M. O. R. E. Queens ” Hon. Chief Mrs Mercy Awhana took the opportunity to commend His Excellency Rt Hon Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State, the Delta State Sports Commission Chairman Mr. Onoriode Oborevwori and the Sports Commission Director General Mr Festus Ohwojero for their timely payment of player salaries, especially in this month of December 2024.
Saying that the prompt payment was inline with the M. O. R. E. Agenda of the State Government and a commitment made by the commission board chairman during his swearing in, that he will ensure that , the welfare of staff and athletes in the state was not taking for granted as owning of players and athletes salaries and bonuses will be the thing of the past, and the Sports Commission Board will ensure that the management of the two football clubs ( both male and female clubs) is given all the necessary support and logistics to motivate and galvanize both teams to achieve success in their various league.
Hon Awhana, who added that the commendation reflects the club’s commitment to ensuring that its players are compensated fairly and on time, which is vital for fostering a positive working environment.
The general manager highlighted that since the inauguration of the sports Commission Board Chairmen, the Commission has been living up to the high expectations of the sports men and women in the State, saying that just recently in less than a week ago, the Commission paid the Delta Queens team all outstanding off-season salaries and bonuses, and now today being Thursday 19th of December, 2024, salaries of the players has been paid which was quite commendable, and based on the facts that timely salary payments, not only boost players’ confidence but also enhance their focus on training and matches.
In her words , “When players are assured that their financial needs are met, they can concentrate fully on their performance on the pitch, leading to better results for the club”.
She also noted that this practice sets a standard within the sports Commission and encourages a culture of accountability and respect.
Furthermore, the general manager expressed gratitude to the sports Commission DG, for the role he played in maintaining a transparent and efficient payment system. This not only strengthens the trust between players and management but also positions the club as a model for professionalism in the football industry.
She said her commendation serves as a reminder of the importance of financial responsibility in sports, emphasizing that when players are treated well, the entire club benefits in the long run.