BSFA Honours Alia, Gusau, Shaibu as North Central Backs NFF President for Second Term

The Annual General Meeting of the Benue State Football Association (BSFA) on Friday went beyond its statutory responsibilities as the association recognised key figures for their contributions to football development and secured unanimous backing from North Central football administrators for Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President Ibrahim Musa Gusau to seek a second term.

The association conferred its prestigious Chairman’s Honours Award on Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia; NFF President, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, MON; and former Edo State Deputy Governor and Director General of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu.

The event brought together football administrators, delegates and stakeholders from across Benue State and culminated in the endorsement of Gusau by chairmen of Football Associations from the North Central geopolitical zone.

BSFA Recognises Leadership and Football Development

Presenting the awards, BSFA Chairman, Chief Dr. Paul Edeh, FCPA, said football development requires effective administration, investment and partnerships.

“Football cannot grow in isolation. Every milestone we have recorded has been made possible by leaders and partners who believe that investing in sports is ultimately an investment in young people.”

Governor Alia was recognised for his administration’s commitment to youth development and investment in sports infrastructure.

The BSFA specifically highlighted the ongoing remodelling of the McCarthy Stadium in Makurdi and the Aper Aku Stadium, projects the association said could strengthen Benue’s capacity to host major football competitions and support grassroots development when completed.

Gusau Receives Award as North Central Endorses Second Term

Gusau’s recognition was linked to his leadership of the NFF since assuming office in 2022, with the BSFA citing reforms including the amendment of the NFF Statutes and increased engagement with stakeholders and state football associations.

The association also noted Gusau’s relationship with Benue, stating that the state was the first he visited on official assignment after becoming NFF President.

The AGM later took a significant political turn within football administration when chairmen of Football Associations across the North Central zone unanimously endorsed Gusau for a second term as NFF President. They also pledged to jointly purchase his nomination form ahead of the forthcoming NFF presidential election.

Shaibu Recognition Highlights Coaching Development

Former Edo State Deputy Governor and NIS Director General Philip Shaibu was also honoured for his contribution to technical education and human capital development in football.

The BSFA highlighted the importance of coaching education and technical certification, noting that nearly 30 coaches from Benue State had undergone specialised training at the NIS through the sponsorship of the BSFA Chairman.

The association also disclosed that the NIS had agreed to partner with the BSFA to organise coaching development programmes in Benue State, with the aim of expanding access to technical education for coaches.

Other Football Stakeholders Honoured

The association also recognised NFF Executive Committee member representing the North Central zone, Rt. Hon. Chief Margaret Icheen, for her leadership and contributions to football administration.

BSFA Secretary, Dr. Iorngulum Malu Akuraan, was honoured for his service and contributions to football administration in the state.

The private sector was also acknowledged, with Flight Transport Limited President, Comrade Chief Akor Andiir, recognised for supporting sports and grassroots football development, while BATOHA Resort Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Arc. Apeh Harrison Iwodi, received an award for his support and partnership with football development in Benue.

The AGM concluded with the BSFA reaffirming its commitment to football development while the North Central endorsement positioned Gusau’s bid for a second term as a major talking point from the gathering.