The Association of Nigerian Women in Sports (NAWIS) has implored Cross Rivers State Governor, Professor Benedict Ayade to offset nine months salaries owed players of Pelican Stars Football Club.

National President of the association, Professor Florence Adeyanju said the payment of the backlog will help alleviate the sufferings of the young and promising players.

A statement by the advocacy group added that NAWIS has taken it upon itself to intervene and appeal because their mandate centres on the welfare of athletes.

“With due respect and humility, Association of Nigerian Women in Sports (NAWIS) a non-Governmental Organisation comprising of women who are into sports in various spheres and the body approved by the Federal Ministry of Sports Development to represent the interest of women on the Boards of National Sports Federations, wish to acknowledge your good deeds as a seasones virologist, fatherly role and humanitarian gesture,” the statement read.

“As a very caring father, we appeal to you to kindly intervene in the situation of our dear sisters and daughters of Pelican Stars Football Club Calabar who have not been paid their salaries since August 2019.

“Sir, we appeal to you to approve the payment of their outstanding salaries so as to alleivate their suffering

“We are grateful for the time taken in reading our appeal while we await with great hope your quick positive resolution to this painful issue.”