BetKing signed its first sponsorship deal with a football club in Nigeria. This sees the bookmaker, which additionally holds licences in Ghana and Kenya, acting as shirt sponsor of Ikorodu City. Furthermore, the contract currently runs for the upcoming season of the second-tier Nigeria National League (NNL). The signing between the Lagos-based squad and the betting firm took place on Thursday during an official ceremony at the office of KingMakers, the operator of BetKing, in the 16-million population metropolis.
What BetKing’s contract includes beyond the shirt sponsorships
The fact that Ikorodu City represents the first Nigerian football club to be supported by the bookie was revealed by the managing director of BetKing Nigeria, Gossy Ukawoke, at the unveiling ceremony. Additionally, he expressed that both parties want to headline as Kings in 2023. For example, Ukawoke stated: “We signed a contract for the upcoming season. It covers all areas of the club. We mean, among other things, the youth system and branding. Plus, we can extend it beyond the season to other projects of the club.”
Furthermore, he said, “We commit ourselves to the athletic development and growth of Nigerian grassroots football. With our partnership with Ikorodu City, we underpin our dedication. We are delighted to support a winning team. Because: We see ourselves as winners as well as kings and want to ensure that Ikorodu City achieves the same goal. Therefore, we decided to work closely together.”
Moreover, he commented: “With this, we aim to support future stars and help them to grow and make a difference. Additionally, BetKing will constantly invest in the growth of local sports, youth development, healthcare, education, and other activities for of the socio-economic welfare of individuals and communities.” Throughout the Nigeria National League season, BetKing’s logo will adorn all the club’s home, away and alternate shirts.
Ikorodu City targets the promotion to the NPFL
The vice-chairman of Ikorodu City, Sanmi Doherty, said: “The partnership with this brand makes us very proud. In our case, KingMaker invested in something that they don’t even know how it will turn out. They trust us, and we won’t disappoint them.” Ikorodu City is entitled to high hopes of promotion to the top-flight in Nigeria, the Professional Football League (NPFL). Because: The club emerged as the best second division team from Lagos in the last two seasons. Moreover, they prevailed at the Lagos State Football Association NNL Preseason Tournament.
