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Simon Terver Ikya, the Chairman of Lobi Stars Football Club, has reiterated his strong dedication to unearthing and nurturing exceptional football talents from the grassroots level to bolster the club’s future prospects. This pledge came during his address at the opening ceremony of the inaugural Alaia/Unongozo Zone A Unity Football Competition, held at the Akume Atongo Stadium in Katsina-Ala, Benue State.
Accompanied by the club’s Assistant Coach, Benjamin Kude, Ikya highlighted that his administration is fully committed to a comprehensive strategy for repositioning Lobi Stars. Central to this vision is the proactive identification of promising young players through local competitions, with the aim of grooming them into standout performers who can significantly contribute to the team.
“I am here with one of our coaches who led the Vandeikya Local Government team to victory in the last Governor’s Cup. Together, we are scouting for exceptional talents who can be developed and infused into Lobi Stars to add value to the team,” Ikya stated. He further emphasized football’s role as a unifying force in society, noting that matches often bring communities together, with even farmers and hunters pausing their daily routines to rally behind their favorite teams.
Ikya described football as a vital instrument for promoting unity, peace, and social cohesion. He commended the initiative behind the tournament, crediting Hon. Fidelis Unongo, the Special Adviser to the Governor of Benue State on Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, for his visionary leadership in organizing the event at this pivotal moment. The competition, he added, perfectly complements the ongoing efforts of Governor Hyacinth Alia to foster unity of purpose, peace, and harmonious coexistence throughout the state.
The Lobi Stars Chairman expressed sincere appreciation to football administrators, stakeholders, and dignitaries who attended the historic occasion, including the Chairman of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area, Hon. Dr. Justin Shaku. He described their participation as a powerful symbol of collective responsibility and a shared commitment to advancing Benue State.
Urging all participating teams to maintain the highest levels of professionalism and sportsmanship, Ikya stressed the need to adhere strictly to the rules of the game and steer clear of any misconduct that could tarnish the competition’s spirit.
The tournament kicked off in thrilling fashion, with Katsina-Ala City FC securing a dominant 5-0 victory over Impact FC in the curtain-raiser match, setting an energetic tone for the event.
This grassroots-focused approach aligns with Ikya’s broader mission to strengthen Lobi Stars through sustainable talent development, reflecting the club’s determination to rebuild and thrive in Nigerian football. As the competition unfolds, it promises not only exciting action on the pitch but also meaningful contributions to youth empowerment and community development in the region.
