NFF President lauds Gov. Alia grass-root football

From: Uche Nnorom, Makurdi

President, Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, Alh. Ibrahim Gusau has lauded the effort of Benue State Governor Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia for development of grassroot football in the State.

This is even as the Benue State Football Association, BSFA, bestowed on him Special recognition award during the Gala/award Nite held in Makurdi at the weekend to celebrate 48 years of football development in Benue State.

The NFF boss said he was impressed by the Governor’s action to donate a trophy for the just concluded Governor’s Cup, maintaining that the Federation is always ready to support the state government in the growth and development of football at the grassroots.

State Chairman, BSFA Barr. Paul Edeh eulogized the NFF President, stating that he has made the football landscape in Nigeria to thrive with ease.

Barr. Edeh explained that the association decided to honor those who have elevated the status of football in the State, adding, “we are  honoring individuals who have contributed to the growth of football in the State”.

The BSFA Chairman who also bestowed ‘Man of the Year Award’ on Governor Hyacinth Alia, lauded his achievement in the renovation of the Aper Aku Stadium as well as revival of the Governor’s Cup.

Said he, “the association will aggressively pursue the development of football at the grassroots level. Benue State would explemify how football should be developed at the grassroots.

“We call on the NFF President to give equal recognition to women football in terms of reward” .

In another vein, Governor Hyacinth Alia has promised to put Benue on the radar in football development in the country.

The Governor made the pledge while speaking at the Finals of the Governor’s Cup held at the JS Tarka Stadium, Gboko on Saturday.

He appreciated the NFF President for donating a trophy and understanding the dynamics of football and promised to renovate the JS Tarka Stadium.