Newly elected Chairman of the Benue State Football Association, Paul Edeh, has set the stage towards achieving his football revolution in Benue State by redeeming his N10million pledge and donation of a Sienna bus to the association when he visited the State Governor, Rev. Father Alia, in Government House, Makurdi.
Edeh’s Giant Strides
Fresh his election and sponsorship of the Benue State Football League last week via his Ratels Sports Development Foundation, Edeh announced the donation during his inaugural speech at the BSFA General Assembly.
For stakeholders, Edeh’s giant strides will serve as the catalyst for a football revolution in the state.
On the eve of the election, he sponsored the State League with winners, Zeal Mind FA receiving N500,000. First and second runner up received N300,000 and N200,000, respectively.
This represents a huge rise in prize money for grassroots tournaments and the first time BSFA will receive such incentive from the private sector.
Government House
Speaking at Government House, he said: “Our Vision for the BSFA is to run an investment driven, self-sustaining and impactful football association committed to fair-play, accountability and focus on grassroots football development in pursuit of FIFA, CAF and NFF mandates.
“Our mission as an FA is to effectively oversee and administer football in all ramifications in Benue State in the most transparent and accountable manner in order to eradicate all opportunities for corruption and ensure that the rule of law is respected.
“My administration as the Benue Football Association Chairman and that of the FA Board shall be tailored around support for football development at the grassroots through the various local FAs and affiliate members comprising the Coaches Association, Referees Association, Players Union and the four Leagues.”
As one who understands the importance of the grassroots in football development, he appealed to the state government to mandate all Local Government Areas (LGAs) chairmen to provide a land for at least a mini stadium site in their various localities.
Responding on behalf of the Governor, the deputy governor Barr. Sam Ode congratulated and commended the new BSFA board for taking immediate developmental initiatives, while affirming that their emergence was a clear evidence that the delegates have confidence in them.
Edeh was accompanied during the visit by BSFA board members. They included vice chairman Alex Awunah Ioryoosu, Avungu Jeremiah, Akaasar Marcel, Torluam Terungwa Samuel, Virginia Mbazan Kpindi, Moses Lubem Ukpo, Andiir Solomon Atoo, Francis Ijiga Eche, Godwin Oihi Akpa and Unwanyi Ulegede.