Crusoe Osagie, Chairman of the Communication Sub-Committee, announced the 3rd edition of the Betsy Obaseki Women Football Tournament (BOWFT) will bolster the Edo State Government’s crusade against gender-based violence.
“The 2023 tournament, kicking off on October 23, will host 13 formidable teams, 11 from the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) and two leading women’s teams from Edo State,” Osagie said, adding that officials will inspect match venues on October 16.
According to a report by This Day Live, Osagie emphasized the scheduled seminar on October 31, aligned with the tournament. “This critical forum will review the significant advances Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration has made in fighting gender-based violence over the past seven years. We anticipate the attendance of first ladies from all 36 states,” he detailed.
He also stressed the FIFA-accredited tournament’s commitment to nurturing young female talents. “This event transcends football. It’s about empowering young women, reflected in the government’s sweeping reforms in education, job creation, and sports—a commitment evident in our local team’s victory at the recent Shereos pre-season tournament,” he remarked.
The BOWFT aims to escalate public awareness on terminating gender violence this year, with matches set at multiple venues throughout Edo State. The opening and final clashes will happen at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, whereas the University of Benin Sports Complex and Western Boys College mini stadium will host other crucial matches.
Furthermore, Osagie mentioned, “The teams will benefit from first-rate training venues at the Edo State College of Nursing and Health Sciences and the University of Benin Teaching Hospital,” as he elaborated on the comprehensive, development-focused provisions for the participants during the tournament.
