The chairman of the Benue State Football Association (BSFA), Dr. Paul Edeh, has officially inaugurated the newly elected local government Football chairmen, urging them to actively organize tournaments aimed at discovering and nurturing local football talent. His call is part of an initiative to enhance the state’s presence on the global football stage.
Following the ceremony, Dr. Edeh emphasized the need for a shift away from solely relying on established footballers, stating, “The days of depending on already made footballers are over. We want to ensure that everyone in the nooks and crannies of all 23 local governments has the chance to showcase their talent.”
Dr. Edeh expressed optimism that the newly inaugurated chairmen would elevate grassroots football to an admirable level in Benue State. He encouraged them to facilitate tournaments that provide equal opportunities for all aspiring grassroots players, allowing the best talents to emerge and represent the state.
Out of the 23 local governments, 18 chairmen who participated in the recent elections were inaugurated, while caretaker committees will be appointed for the remaining five until their elections can be conducted. Dr. Edeh reiterated the BSFA’s mandate to oversee such elections, noting that the previous chairmen’s tenure ended on May 27, 2023.
He expressed hope that within the next two years, the chairmen would successfully identify and develop top talents, aiming to position Benue State as the country’s football hub.
Former BSFA Chairperson Margaret Icheen also addressed the new chairmen, urging them to take bold actions to revitalize grassroots football activities. She highlighted the need for support, lamenting that despite Benue’s historic contribution to football, the BSFA has never received subventions to enhance its initiatives, unlike other states.
Icheen also pointed out that factors such as the lack of home support significantly contributed to the relegation of Lobi Stars Football Club, stressing that playing at home could boost player morale and performance.
In support of these efforts, Dr. Philip Nongu, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth and Sports and Chairman of Lobi Stars, assured the new chairmen that the ministry would continue to provide guidance, support, and assistance necessary to revitalize grassroots football in the state.
“I have dispatched coaches across the 23 local governments to scout for potential players,” Dr. Nongu stated. “We have promising talent capable of elevating Lobi to continental success, and we are committed to this endeavor.”
The inauguration marks a pivotal step towards harnessing local talent in Benue State and fostering a vibrant football culture at the grassroots level.
