Like the National Team invitation, Super Eagles goalkeeper, Amas Obasogie was astounded to witness the presence of the former captain of Bendel Insurance, Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon Philip Shaibu on a surprise visit.
The Bendel Insurance stand-in captain was astounded seeing the deputy governor in his house as he welcomed him into his apartment with all humility and smiles.
Shaibu thanked Amas Obasogie for his good work for the club, stating that Ama’s invitation to the Super Eagles wasn’t a fluke. “I saw your game on Sunday against Kano Pillars and when the penalty was given, though I was frightened, I had confidence that you were capable of saving us and you did! Thank you so much.”
The deputy governor took the time to charge the team through the stand-in captain to keep putting smiles on the faces of the Edo people.
“The season is still very much young but I do not want you to be complacent. You know the league is very tasking and difficult, so please, always ensure that you give all your best on the field of play.”
“You guys are not alone, and no matter what, I will always be there for you all.”
Amas who was all through the visitation smiling — surprised at the visit — thanked the deputy governor for his rare humility and sports man spirit. “Your Excellency, your visit is a surprise and it’s heartwarming that I could receive someone like this in my house, I’m humbly grateful and I will cherish this for the rest of my life.”
Amas Obasogie who has kept 7 cleansheets for Bendel Insurance this season meanwhile presented to the deputy governor, a national team jersey with No. 1 boldly printed on it.
Hearing a knock on his apartment gate isn’t a new thing, but seeing the visitor who entered his Horse-blood colour painted storey building somewhere along the airport road was a thing of surprise for Bendel Insurance dependable defender, Sunday Anyanwu as it was the Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu stormed his house in a surprise visit.
Sunday Anyanwu opened his door and it was smiles all over his face alongside his family members who were shocked at seeing the deputy governor in their apartment.
Shaibu greeted every member of the family and thanked them for taking care of the gentle giant on the field of play while commending Anyanwu for his doings for Bendel Insurance FC.
“I’m glad to be here and pay my former teammate and our rock-solid defender, a visit. Sunday is an integral part of our team and his exploits over the years can never be underestimated. He has shown character on and off the field and remains loyal and committed to ensuring that the team remains solid on the field of play.”
The most sports-loving elected office holder in Nigeria also praised other players — Tamara Ezekiel and Paul Obata — who were present at the player’s apartment at the time of the visit, commending their efforts and charging them to do more.
“I have watched you guys in all our matches this season both physically and via the NPFL Live App and I’m impressed with what you have brought on board in this short time. Please keep up the good work and let’s make Bendel Insurance better.
“Thank you for all you are doing and please, do not relent, keep pushing and ensure that the team gives to the good people of Edo state something to cheer about Bendel Insurance,” Shaibu added.
Sunday Anyanwu took turn to thank the deputy governor on his visit calling it a lifetime visitation “This is rear and exceptional, never have I thought that a local government chairman will come pay me visit, but here, the deputy governor is a guest in my house. Thank you, Your Excellency for this great visitation.”
On the deputy governor’s entourage were Mrs. Sabina Chikere and Edo State Football Association board member aspirant, Charles Olubayo