The Benue State Football Association, led by Barrister Paul Edeh, Chairman Benue State Football Association and also the President of Retels Sport Development Foundation paid a courtesy visit to the President of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau recently in Abuja.
Edeh acknowledged that he had closely studied the NFF president’s manifesto and drew inspiration from his vision to develop football from the grassroots. Edeh stated that he intended to follow in the footsteps of the NFF president and work towards the same goals.
He also appreciated the NFF President for his support during the recent elections, which resulted in the representation of Benue State on the NFF board.
One of the primary issues Edeh addressed during the visit was the lack of affordable football in Benue State and across Nigeria. The chairman requested the support of the NFF President in addressing the issue and urged him to find ways to reduce the cost of footballs so that young boys and girls could afford to play the sport even at the grassroots level.
The association shared the progress made in their inaugural 29 days in office. They had sought the patronage and support of influential individuals, including His Royal Majesty the Tor Tiv and His Royal Majesty the Ochidoma. Both royal fathers were receptive to the request and pledged their support to the growth of football in Benue State.
The association also engaged with the vice chancellors of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Otupu, and the Benue State University, seeking their support in providing educational opportunities alongside football for players in the state.
Moving on to infrastructure development, Edeh made specific requests to the NFF President regarding stadiums in Benue State. He asked for assistance in writing to the Benue State government to reclaim the Otupu Township Stadium and ensure that it is properly utilized for its intended purpose. Barr. Paul Edeh also sought the construction of suitable stadiums in each of the state’s three senatorial districts. He highlighted the lack of a befitting stadium in Zone A, which is in Katinaala, as well as in Boko, the headquarters of Zone B, and Otupu.
In his remark the President of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) highlighted the importance of developing football from the grassroots level. He outlined a plan that includes training grassroots coaches and focusing on young referees to ensure the future success and quality of the game.
The NFF President expressed his commitment to supporting the Benue State Football Association and its initiatives. He acknowledged the interest of a potential candidate for the position of chairman of the association, stating that having individuals who are passionate and committed to football in positions of authority is crucial for its development.
The NFF President emphasized the role of the federation in representing and supporting the needs of the football community. He encouraged the association to reach out whenever they required attention or assistance, assuring them that the NFF was elected to serve and support the grassroots level of football.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the board, management, and staff of the federation to provide the necessary support and resources to ensure the success of grassroots football development in Benue State. He praised the efforts of the Benue State Football Association and expressed his optimism for the future of football in the state.
Dr. Gusau however highlighted the federation’s dedication to nurturing talent from a young age, improving infrastructure, and collaborating with local associations to drive football development in Benue State. The speech reinforces the federation’s commitment to fostering a vibrant footballing culture and preparing the next generation of players, coaches, and referees in the state.
