Join our WhatsApp channel HERE for the latest Benue news and updates!
Exactly one week into their tenure, the newly appointed management team of Lobi Stars Football Club, led by Mr. Simon Terver Ikya, is already making waves in Benue State football circles with a flurry of proactive steps aimed at resurrecting the Pride of Benue and propelling them back to the Nigeria Premier Football League.
Appointed by His Excellency Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the Executive Governor of Benue State, the seasoned administrators wasted no time. Their first official act was a motivational address to players and officials at McCarthy Stadium in Makurdi, where they laid out a clear vision: unity, discipline, and an uncompromising push for top-flight promotion. “Anything less than the Premier League is unacceptable,” they declared.
In a whirlwind of activity, the team completed Lobi Stars’ registration for the 2025/2026 Nigeria National League (NNL) season in Abuja, finalized key appointments, and held strategic meetings with former players who pledged full support. Notable appointments include Finbar Yamelu as Team Manager, John Onuh as Chief Coach, Emma Abah as Goalkeeper Trainer, Dennis Adoga as Coordinator, and Austin Tyowua as Media Officer—each chosen for their deep expertise in Nigerian football.
Stakeholder engagement has been robust. The management hosted representatives from the Nigeria Coaches Association (Benue Chapter) and the Nigerian Football Referees Association (Benue Chapter), securing promises of collaboration. On the pitch, they’ve been hands-on, monitoring training sessions and even witnessing Lobi Stars demolish North Bank United 8-0 in a friendly—a resounding statement of intent.
Adding a spiritual dimension, Pastor Dr. King Omudu of Shelter of Glory, Makurdi, was introduced as the club’s spiritual pastor. He led prayers dedicating the team to God and invoking divine favor for the season ahead.
Facing the temporary unavailability of McCarthy Stadium, the management inspected and confirmed Lafía City Stadium in Nasarawa State as the club’s home ground for the upcoming NNL campaign. Mr. Ikya reassured anxious fans: “We are working tirelessly to return to Makurdi as soon as possible.” Accompanying him on the trip were Technical Director Harry Yachi, Club Secretary Terzungwe Chugh, Media Director Emmanuel Uja, and other key officials.
The season opener is set for November 15, 2025, against City FC of Abuja in what’s being billed as a blockbuster Derby clash. With momentum building, the management remains laser-focused on their mandate: promotion at all costs.
As Benue sons and daughters rally behind this determined leadership, one message echoes loud and clear—Lobi Stars belongs to the people, and together, they will protect and elevate it. The journey to greatness has begun.
