By Chiangi Avese, Makurdi
The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) Benue State Chapter rose from their general meeting on Wednesday in Makurdi calling on the State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia to make timely releases of money to the club for seamless performance.
A communique signed by the State Chairman, Mr. John Shiaondo, and Secretary, Mr. Tamenor Kwaghdzer, said members discussed the issues of sports development in the state and expressed worry the over the bad state of Aper Stadium, a situation which has caused Lobi Stars Football club, to play their home matches for two seasons away from the state capital.
SWAN noted that, “the bad state of the stadium, the reason for Lobi Stars playing their home matches in other stadia has been denying the state of the needed revenue and the teaming club fans and football loving people of the state from the joy of watching the ‘Yes Fada boys’ play on their pitch at the Aper Aku Stadium”.
Members, according to the communique, praised the cordial working relationship between Governor Alia and his Deputy, Sam Ode who doubles as the Chairman of Lobi Stars Football Club of Makurdi, calling on the them to continue in the relationship.
SWAN maintained that the Governor should be making timely releases of money to the club for seamless performance, progress and development noting that stepping up of sponsorship for Lobi Stars will enable the Club to maintain the good performance it has displayed in the current NPFL season.
The association commended the Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Dominic Iorfa, management, technical crew and players of the club for the scintillating conduct/performance that has put Lobi on front burner in the ongoing NPFL season.
On the unity and progress of SWAN, members resolved to work as one family for development of sports in the state. The meeting also urged members to step up coverage of other sports and not concentrate only only on football.
