Ondo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr Bamidele Ologunloluwa, says contrary to wild speculations, the ministry had not neglected Sunshine Queens Football Club of Akure.
Ologunloluwa told newsmen in Akure on Sunday that much had not been heard about the team lately because it was relegated last season.
He said management and coaching crew of the team were working to ensure that the 2015 Federation Cup champions returned to the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL).
Ologunloluwa added that management would do everything possible to ensure the team returned to the women’s premier league.
“It is unfortunate that the team got relegated, but relegation is part of football; we will stand with the team to return to the NWFL.
“Since they went on relegation last year, we maintained the queens on ground and also recruited fresh legs that can complement the players to return the team to the premier league.
“We motivate them despite the fact they are on relegation; we did not reduce their salaries and it has always been paid regularly.
“When they complained about their hostel, we got them a befitting hostel to make them comfortable and relaxed ahead of their championship play-off scheduled for Abuja in a few weeks,’’ Ologunloluwa said.
The commissioner added that the team had been engaging in competitions that would keep it in shape ahead of its championship play-off.
