Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has rewarded Blessing Ejiofor who was part of Nigeria’s victorious women’s national team at the 2025 FIBA AfroBasket tournament with N30million.
Ejiofor, who hails from Okposi community, Ohaozara Local Government Area of the State, was also given a duplex by the Governor and State Honour of Ebonyi Hall of Fame.
She was rewarded at the same time Nigeria’s Minister for Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi, came to pay courtesy visit to Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru at Executive Council Chambers in Abakaliki the State Capital.
Nwifuru, while receiving Ejiofor at the Government House, Abakaliki, expressed pride in her achievement, describing her as “a great ambassador” of Ebonyi State.
He said her participation in the continental championship was particularly special as it signalled the presence of Ebonyi talents on the global sporting stage.
“I was a little sad during the last AFCON because Ebonyi’s presence was not there,” the Governor remarked.
“But I was happy when I heard, while abroad, that Ebonyi was represented in this championship that we won. This is one of my agitations that has come to be.”
The Governor noted that Ejiofor’s journey to the national team was not an easy one but a testament to determination and divine destiny. He commended her for inspiring younger athletes to follow in her footsteps and pledged the state’s continued support for sports development.
In recognition of her feat, Governor Nwifuru announced a cash reward of ₦30 million and the gift of a duplex at the Civil Servant Estate in Abakaliki.
He also approved Ejiofor’s request for improved basketball facilities in the state, directing the release of ₦50 million to the Ministry of Sports for the construction of a standard basketball court for both male and female players.
“Our reward system is working very well, and we must reward you,” the Governor said. “Not only did you represent the nation, but you made your home state proud.”
“We pray that God will give you the strength and all you need to perform even better next time.”
Blessing Ejiofor was part of the Nigerian side that clinched the FIBA AfroBasket title, further cementing the country’s dominance in African women’s basketball.
The Director General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), Jubrin Ndace, also commended Ejiofor, who has not only done Ebonyi State proud but the entire country.
On her part, the Blessing Ejiofor expressed Joy over the reward she got from Governor. She promised to train more young ones in the field.