Benue State governor, Fr Hyacinth Alia, has vowed to restore the lost glory of the state in football, describing the round leather game as a unifying force that transcends ages.
He made the pledge shortly after the grand finale of the 2024 Governor’s Cup held at JS Tarka Stadium with Vandeikya local government emerging champions after beating Agatu local government 6-5 on penalty.
Governor Alia, who was visibly impressed with the massive crowd that witnessed the final, promised to sustain the tournament, saying : “I make bold to say that the Governor’s Cup has come to stay.
“My administration is going to bring back the lost glory of football in the state. I am happy to see the unifying force of soccer here in Gboko, and I want to tell you that soccer has come to stay. Benue is a household name when it comes to football because I know very well that over 40 per cent of players in our national teams were from Benue.”
He congratulated his home team for making him proud by winning the trophy and also the female team of Katsina-Ala for carrying the day, urging them to be more committed and dedicated.
“I want to also congratulate Agatu male and Gwer West female for their courage and unwavering commitment that brought them this far. Do not take this humble beginning for granted, this is the beginning of good things to come your way and Benue in general.”
Governor Alia further thanked the president Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Ibrahim Gusau for donating the trophies for the Governor’s Cup, a gesture he said will not be taken for granted with a promise to continue to work with the NFF president for the development of football in Benue.
Alia also commended the organisers of the tournament, the Benue State Football Association (BSFA) for their contributions and for ensuring its successful end.
Earlier, the NFF President Gusau described Governor Alia as a listening, committed and selfless leader who is passionate about developing the state.
He promised to collaborate with the Governor to upgrade the JS Tarka Stadium and as well developed football in the State
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