The Media Director of Lobi Stars Football Club, Emmanuel Uja, has commended Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, for his sustained support and proper funding of the club, describing it as the foundation that has kept Lobi Stars among the best football clubs in Nigeria.
Uja made the remarks while responding to questions from the Editor of People & Politics, Felix Duru Mbah, shortly after his appointment as Media Director of the Makurdi-based club. He expressed delight over his new role, describing the appointment as both a privilege and an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the governor’s sports development policy, which focuses on discovering and nurturing young talents.
He noted that Governor Alia’s commitment to sports development has ensured stability at the club, despite the many challenges confronting football administration in the country.
Addressing concerns over Lobi Stars’ frequent change of home grounds in recent seasons, Uja disclosed that the Benue State Government is working assiduously to upgrade both McCarthy Stadium and Aper Aku Stadium in Makurdi. He added that the club’s Chairman, Simon Terver Ikya, has also carried out significant rehabilitation work at McCarthy Stadium.
According to him, there is strong optimism that Lobi Stars will return to Makurdi as their home ground before the commencement of the second stanza of the Nigeria National League (NNL).
Reacting to reports of negative publicity surrounding the club, Uja dismissed claims of bad press, attributing such narratives to the actions of a few individuals. He stressed that such issues no longer exist under the current leadership, noting that the administration of Simon Terver Ikya has brought renewed order and professionalism to the club.
On allegations of poor players’ and staff welfare, the Media Director was unequivocal, stating that there is nothing like poor welfare at Lobi Stars. He explained that the Benue State Government, as owners of the club, has placed Lobi Stars on first-line charge, ensuring that salaries and match bonuses are paid promptly. Uja challenged anyone with contrary claims to present verifiable evidence.
Speaking on the club’s relegation from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), Uja assured fans that concerted efforts are underway to return Lobi Stars to the top flight. He described the promotion drive as gradual but deliberate, emphasizing that the chairman has put all necessary structures in place to achieve the objective.
Uja concluded by appealing to Lobi Stars supporters across the world to remain steadfast in their support and prayers for the club. He also expressed profound gratitude to Governor Hyacinth Alia for his continued backing of Lobi Stars, despite competing developmental needs in the state.
