By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi
The President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alh Ibrahim Gusau, has scored the Governor of Benue State, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, high over his giant developmental strides in the area of sports, particularly football.
Alh Gusau, gave the commendation at the weekend at the JS Tarka Stadium, Gboko, Benue State during the finals and third place matches of Benue State Governor’s Cup competition.
The President lauded the Governor over revamping the Governor’s Cup tournament, and for awarding contract for the total renovation of the Aper Aku stadium, Makurdi. He donated a trophy to the Benue State Governor’s Cup competition as part his contribution to football development in the state.
The NFF Boss, called the Governor to extend the renovation work to the JS Tarka Stadium, Gboko to give it a face lift. He promised to continue to support sports activities in Benue State.
Also speaking, the Governor of Benue State, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, assured that his administration would continue to accord the sports sector in the state topmost priority.
Gov Alia, who underscored the importance of sports to the development of the state, noted that the tournament has brought unity of purpose to the state, hinting that plans were underway to bring back the lost glory of football.
The Governor who made a personal donation of over thirteen million naira to the winners of both male and female categories, assured that Lobi Stars Football Club, Makurdi, will play its last two matches of the ongoing Nigeria Football Premier League, NFPL, at the Aper Aku stadium, which is currently undergoing renovation.
In the male category, Vandeikya Local Government team, which is the home Local Government of Governor Alia, defeated the Agatu Local Government team through penalty kick after playing a goalless draw in both first and second half of the finals to emerge winner, while in the female category, Katsina-Ala Local Government team floored team Gwer West by 3-1.
Meanwhile, the Benue State Football Association, donated the sum of Ten Million naira to the winners of the 2024/2025 Benue State Governor’s Cup tournament.
