Governor Alex Otti Gifts Bendel Insurance ₦10 Million in Historic Gesture of Sportsmanship

Governor Alex Otti Gifts Bendel Insurance ₦10 Million in Historic Gesture of Sportsmanship



History was made in Nigerian football as the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, became the first Nigerian governor to gift an away team ₦10 million in a show of support and fair play. The gesture came after Bendel Insurance faced Enyimba FC in a thrilling NPFL Matchday 5 encounter in Aba, which ended 3–2 in favor of the home side.

Governor Otti, accompanied by Enyimba Chairman and FIFA Ambassador, Kanu Nwankwo, visited the Bendel Insurance dressing room after the match to extend his goodwill. The governor’s act of generosity not only highlighted his deep love for football but also sent a powerful message of unity, fairness, and sportsmanship.

In a league where home teams traditionally enjoy the advantage, Governor Otti’s decision to reward the visiting team stands as a shining example of leadership, humility, and fairness. His action has been widely praised across the football community, setting a new precedent for other state governors to emulate.

Kanu Nwankwo, who led the governor to meet the visiting team, expressed joy and gratitude for the historic gesture. Fondly known as Papilo, the former Super Eagles captain is celebrated worldwide for his humanitarian values and passion for football. His role in facilitating the governor’s visit underscored the camaraderie and unity within Nigerian football.



Governor Otti’s support for football is not new. A passionate fan and advocate of sports development, he has consistently championed efforts to raise the standard of the game in Abia State. This latest act further cements his reputation as a football-loving leader committed to using sports as a tool for peace, unity, and development.

Beyond its immediate impact, the ₦10 million gift carries symbolic weight: it shows that football is bigger than rivalries and victories—it is a platform for promoting brotherhood, inspiring players, and fostering tourism and growth across Nigeria.

As Governor Otti continues to lead by example, this gesture is expected to encourage other leaders to embrace football as a means of community development and national unity.



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