Akwa United’s head coach, Mr Paul Offor, has praised the Nigeria National League (NNL) leadership for introducing monthly awards to recognize outstanding players and officials.
Coach Offor, who won Best Coach for December, January, and February, says the initiative motivates stakeholders across the league.
He described the recognition as a significant step forward, reinforcing his commitment to achieving greater success.
He noted that the recognition has reinforced his commitment to strive for greater achievements.
According to him, the awards system has added a new level of competitiveness to the league, while also encouraging professionalism among players and officials.
“It has not happened in the Nigerian League before that players get some amount of money immediately they win a match right there in their dressing rooms. This is unprecedented in Nigerian football, and we have no option than to commend the NNL and urge them to continue with the good work they are doing,” Offor said.
He further praised the NNL for implementing reforms and initiatives that have significantly improved the overall standard and competitiveness of the league.
In other award categories, Ajibola Joel of Stormers Sports Club claimed the highest goal scorer award for December, Tony Ayanga of Rovers FC emerged winner for January, while Innocent Idu of City FC secured the February honour.
For the Best Goalkeeper category, Emmanuel Daniel of Ranchers Bees won in December, Aloysius Thankgod of Akwa United was recognized in January, and Alo Chukwu Pascal of Abakaliki FC took the award for February.
Offor’s dominance in the coaching category saw him sweep all three months under review, underlining his consistency and impact.
Kada Warriors were named Best Behaved Team for December, Rovers FC earned the January recognition, while Lobi Stars claimed the February award.
In the Most Valuable Player category, Yaro Zakari of Yobe Desert Warriors emerged winner for December, Victor Samuel of Sporting Lagos was honoured in January, and Obisesan Sodiq of Osun United won for February.
The Goal of the Month awards went to Daniel Gothom of Akwa United (December), Babarinde Taofeek of Gateway FC (January), and Jafar Ojo of Smart City FC (February).
Meanwhile, in the refereeing category, Zaharaddeen Nasiru of the Katsina Referee Council was named best for December, Eke Henry of the Imo Referees Council won in January, while Mudashir Shehu of the Kaduna Referees Council emerged winner for February.
The NNL awards continue to highlight excellence and serve as a driving force for improved performances across Nigeria’s second-tier football league.
