Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Monday received members of Kwara United Football Club following their historic win in the 2025 President’s Federation Cup. The governor also hosted the club’s U-19 team, which recently clinched the maiden National Youth League title.

During a reception held at the Banquet Hall in Ilorin’s GRA, Governor AbdulRazaq announced cash rewards of ₦5 million and a plot of land in Kwara Smart City for each senior team player, commending them for their achievement in bringing the prestigious national trophy to the state.

Kwara United secured the Federation Cup title after defeating Abakaliki FC in a penalty shootout. The team’s victory marked a significant milestone in the state’s football history.

“The President Federation Cup is the biggest trophy in Nigeria today. It predates the League and remains a major national honour. I congratulate everyone who made this possible,” the governor said at the event.

He also recalled the poor condition of the team when his administration took office in 2019, noting that the club was saddled with debt and lacked morale. “We were owing players a lot of money, but today the story has changed,” he added.

The governor dedicated the team’s victory to the memory of the late Alhaji Yusuf Salami, a major supporter of Kwara United who, despite investing personal resources, was unable to win the trophy during his lifetime. “May Allah grant him Alijanna Fridaous,” AbdulRazaq prayed.

The reception was attended by state lawmakers, cabinet members, party leaders, sports administrators, and club officials. Notable attendees included Hon. Rukayat Shittu, Hon. Yusuf Abdulwaheed Gbenga, Deputy Chief of Staff Princess Olubukola Babalola, Sports Commission Chairman Coach Bola Magaji, Kwara United Chairman Kumbi Titiloye, and State FA Chairman Malam Abdullahi Musa Thuraya.

In separate remarks, Coach Magaji and Kumbi Titiloye thanked the governor for what they described as consistent support and investment in the club’s progress.

The Kwara United contingent arrived in Ilorin to an enthusiastic welcome, with residents lining the route from Eiyenkorin to the banquet venue to celebrate the team’s return with the national trophy.