Rivers Commissioner for Sports, Boma Iyaye has congratulated Rivers United FC of Port Harcourt for coming second place in the just concluded 2015/2016 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season.

Iyaye told newsmen in Port Harcourt on Sunday that the team performed far better compared to last season.

He attributed the team’s success to Gov. Nyesom Wike’s motivation and commitment to the team.

“It is basically the motivation and commitment from Gov. Wike that brought about this success. He threw in everything he had into the team.

“He did not just fund Rivers United FC; he was always at the stadium to watch their training and their matches.

“So, we were not expecting anything below a second place. We had wished to even win the title,” he said.

Iyaye said that the merger of former Dauphins FC and Sharks FC to form Rivers United made the state to be focused in funding and managing the team.

“Before the merger last season, this same club was struggling at the bottom of the league and just missed relegation by whiskers.

“So, you can see for yourself what the merging of the teams has done,” he said.

Iyaye urged them to remain focused and work hard for higher challenges.

“I just want to tell Rivers United that this is just the beginning of more successes to come. They have to remain focused and work hard,” he said.

Rivers United FC came second with 60 points in the 2015/2016 NPFL season.