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The Chairman of the Benue State Football Association (BSFA), Chief Barrister Paul Edeh, has praised Lobi Stars Football Club for returning home matches to Makurdi after four years of playing away, describing the move as a positive step toward stability and progress in the state’s football landscape.
Speaking during the official draw for the 2026 President Federation Cup at the weekend, Chief Edeh commended the club’s management for the landmark decision while advising against frequent changes in leadership, stressing that continuity remains essential for sustained development.
The draw seeded Lobi Stars directly into the final as defending champions. They will face the winner of the qualifying fixture between Flight FC and Idioma United, scheduled in Otukpo, with the competition set to kick off on April 11. Only three clubs Lobi Stars, Flight FC, and Idioma United remain in contention for the state’s slot.
The chairman described football in Benue as a shared enterprise where every team’s success reflects the collective pride of the people. He acknowledged Governor Hyacinth Alia’s support in advancing the sport and outlined ongoing efforts to strengthen grassroots football, including:
– Establishment of a National League One (NLO) centre in Makurdi
– Increased opportunities for Benue indigenes to serve as match officials in the NPFL and other leagues
– Full scholarship awards to the National Institute for Sports (NIS) for Coach Tar Akombo (former Lobi Stars coach) and two others, as part of plans to build local coaching capacity
In a conciliatory tone, Chief Edeh extended forgiveness to critics and called for unity within the football community to drive collective growth.
Lobi Stars were represented at the event by club officials led by Secretary Terzungwe Chugh, who appreciated the FA’s efforts but appealed for a suitable, media-friendly venue for the final to improve coverage and visibility.
The gathering also featured recognition for the chairman, as coaches led by Mark Imenger honoured him for sponsoring over 20 coaches to the NIS and supporting grassroots development. He was conferred with the title “Benue Football Emancipator.”
With a prize pool of ₦1 million for the winner, ₦500,000 for second place, and ₦300,000 for third, attention now shifts to the qualifying match and Lobi Stars’ preparation for the final.
