Akin Ayomide
Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has dissolved the Board and Management of the state-owned Lobi Stars FC, Makurdi.
Lobi Stars FC were relegated last season after a 27-year stay in the Nigeria Premier Football League, following a run of poor performances.
The Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Sir Tersoo Kula, announced the governor’s approval of the dissolution in a statement issued on Thursday and made available to journalists in Makurdi.
The move was described as part of ongoing reforms to reposition the club for “greater efficiency, accountability, and better performance” in the Nigeria Premier Football League and other competitions.
“The decision is aimed at repositioning the club for greater efficiency, accountability, and better performance in both the Nigeria Premier Football League and other competitions,” the statement read.
Governor Alia directed that “all members of the dissolved management should hand over all official documents, assets, and responsibilities to the Commissioner for Youth, Sports and Creativity with immediate effect.”
While appreciating the contributions of the outgoing management, the governor said, “The government values the efforts of those who have served the club over the years. However, the time has come for a new direction that reflects our vision for professionalism and transparency in sports administration.”
He added that “a new management structure will soon be announced to drive the next phase of Lobi Stars’ growth and competitiveness.”
According to him, “the next leadership of Lobi Stars must demonstrate competence, passion, and accountability. Our focus is on building a club that inspires pride among Benue people and contributes meaningfully to the state’s sports development agenda.”
Alia reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting sports as a tool for youth engagement and talent development, saying: “Sports remain a vital tool for youth engagement, talent discovery, and social cohesion in Benue State. Our goal is to create an environment where young people can thrive and showcase their abilities on the national and international stage.”
Founded in 1981, Lobi Stars Football Club is one of Nigeria’s longstanding professional football teams.
The club, originally known as Hawks of Makurdi, was established by the Benue State Sports Council and has since grown to become a key name in Nigerian football.