Gov. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State has urged fans of Rangers International FC both at home and Diaspora to offer special prayers for the club’s victory at the 2018 AITEO Final.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Rangers would lock horns with Kano Pillars FC of Kano State at the 2018 AITEO Cup (Federation Cup) final at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba on Wednesday Oct. 24.

Ugwuanyi made the appeal in a message sent to the club on Monday as they make final preparations for the match.

He also called on residents of the state and entire South-East, including traders in Onitsha, Enugu, Aba, Asaba and others to come out en masse at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, to cheer the ‘Flying Antelopes’ to victory.

The governor noted that Rangers were not just an iconic football club, but also “a national brand’’.

“One of the oldest clubs in Nigeria that have remained in the competition and have equally continued to receive the admiration of its staunch supporters across the country.

“Rangers International FC belongs to all of us, Nigerians and lovers of good football,’’ he said.

Ugwuanyi pointed out that it was because of God’s grace and the people’s unceasing prayers, goodwill and support that enabled Rangers under his administration to win the 2015/2016 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) trophy after 32 years.

According to him, the club’s victory on Wednesday will be another milestone achievement.

He, however, charged the club’s management, technical crew and players to tackle the game with all sense of commitment and dedication.

He said it was so that they could win the trophy which had eluded the team in the past three and a half decades.

“As you go out there, remember what Rangers International FC represents and do us proud. Enugu State is in the hands of God!” he added. (NAN)

– Oct. 22, 2018 @ 14:29 GMT