Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong has paid a surprised visit to Plateau United Football Club of Jos as they intensifies preparations ahead of their preliminary round CAF Champions League first leg tie against Simba SC of Tanzania slated for the Jos international Stadium this Sunday.
Governor Lalong in company of his Chief of Staff, Noel Dongjur informed the visibly excited players that his surprise visit is to give them a word of encouragement before the host Simba SC this Sunday.
The Governor, while congratulating the team for picking the CAF Champions League ticket after emerging tops at the botched 2019/2020 Nigerian Professional Football League season, charged the players to put smiles on the faces of soccer loving Nigerians by recording a convincing victory against the Tanzanians.
“Remember you are not only representing Plateau State but Nigerians, as such you have to brace up and win the match convincingly.
“As a government, we will continue to support you to ensure you do well in the CAF Champions League and the Nigeria Professional Football League NPFL.
Lalong assured the players that the bus he earlier promised the team will be delivered before weekend, while the head coach, Abdu Maikaba will also be given an official car.
The Governor also went round the dressing room of the Jos international stadium, promised that edifice will be completed before the end of his tenure in order to boost sporting activities in the state.
On whether fans will be allowed to watch the match, the Governor said efforts are on to get the relevant authorities to give the permission but with strict compliance to the Covid-19 protocol.
General Manager of the club, Pius Henwan enumerated some challenges facing the team and solicited for government attention.
Head coach of the team, Abdu Maikaba, who praised the Governor for the prompt payment of salaries and allowances of the team, promised that the team will record a convincing victory against the visitors.
Captain of the team, Golbe Elisha while thanking the Governor for his continues support and encouragement to the team, assured that they will always work hard to justify government huge investment in the club.
