Benin City – It was a day of joy, pride, and celebration across Edo State on Monday as the Executive Chairman of Etsako East Local Government Council and Chairman of ALGON in Edo State, Rt. Hon. Sunny Ekpetika Ekpeson, stood alongside His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Monday Okpebholo, Executive Governor of Edo State, and other respected leaders to warmly welcome home our victorious Edo Queens.
The Queens returned to Benin City adorned with glory after a commanding performance at the WAFU-B Women’s Champions League qualifiers in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. Their historic win has once again placed Edo State at the center of excellence in African women’s football.
In a thrilling final against Ghana’s Ampem Darkoa Ladies, the Edo Queens showed the true spirit of champions. Down twice, they fought back with heart and determination to level the game at 2–2. When it came to penalties, they stood firm and converted with confidence, securing a 4–1 shootout victory to lift the WAFU-B trophy. That same victory has now earned them a place in the 2026 CAF Women’s Champions League.
Speaking during the reception, Rt. Hon. Ekpeson commended the team for being worthy representatives of Edo and Nigeria. He described their success as a powerful story of grit, teamwork, and belief that will inspire young girls across the state and beyond.
“The Edo Queens have lifted our flag high. They have shown the world that Edo women are bold, talented, and ready to compete and win at the highest level. This is a victory for every community, every family, and every aspiring girl in our state,” he said.
The ALGON Chairman also extended deep appreciation to the players, coaching staff, technical team, and management for their discipline, focus, and professionalism throughout the tournament. He noted that with the right investment and support, Edo State will continue to produce teams that dominate both regionally and continentally.
This latest triumph is even more remarkable because it marks the second time in recent years that Edo Queens have claimed the WAFU-B crown, having first done so in 2024. It reinforces Edo’s reputation as the home of champions and a leading force in women’s football development in Nigeria.
As attention now turns to the CAF Women’s Champions League, Rt. Hon. Ekpeson expressed confidence that the Queens will carry the hopes of Edo and Nigeria with the same passion and excellence. He assured that local government councils across the state will continue to support sports development as a tool for unity, empowerment, and pride.
“To our Queens: you have made us proud. To our people: let us keep supporting them as they go to represent us in Africa. Together, we will keep raising champions,” he concluded.
Signed:
Comr. Amb. Abass Egbezemogie Yunusah
Chief Press Secretary
Etsako East Local Government Council, Agenebode
8th September, 2026
