Jubilation as Governor’s Cup returns to Benue eight years after

From Makurdi to Gboko, then Otukpo, the football fans’ frenzy over the return of the Governor’s Cup in Benue State is electrifying.

This followed the announcement that the competition, which was last held over eight years ago, has been resuscitated with the Benue State Government and Benue State Football Association (BSFA) teaming up to roll out modalities for this year’s edition.

At an official World Press Conference heralding the announcement of the Governor’s Cup return in Makurdi, Benue State capital, Governor Hyacinth Alia, who spoke through the Commissioner for Youth, Sports Development, and Creativity, Rt. Hon. Terkimbi Ikyange, said his resolve to harness and empower talented individuals, especially the youth, is unwavering.

The Commissioner, whose message was delivered by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. John Akume, said, “Benue State Government, ably led by Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia, is very committed to human capital development, and he has always assured that he will stop at nothing in ensuring that the people of the state, especially youth, are well empowered.

“And the best form of empowerment is talent discovery and exposure. This is the major reason he has graciously approved the return of the Governor’s Cup. And I want to use this opportunity to commend the Benue State Football Association, led by Chief Barr. Paul Edeh, for his proactiveness at all times.

“We currently have a BSFA Chairman who is standing very tall and is results-oriented. I’m very, very committed to his team. We see that the development of football in our state is witnessing an accelerated pace.”

While recalling how Benue, at a time, became the hub of football development and unprecedented performance amidst high-level talent discovery