By Chiangi Avese, Makurdi
The Nigeria National League (NNL) has approved the McCarthy Stadium in Makurdi as venue for the home matches of Lobi Stars Football Club, the Pride of Benue.
The NNL management through Mr. Danlami Alanana, Chief Operating Officer of the league, gave the permission after another inspections carried out in which it deems the Stadium Facilities satisfactory for use.
McCarthy Stadium is a 5,000 capacity seater located at the Wadata area of Makurdi, Benue State.
Mr. Danlami Alanana pointed out that the approval was given because the McCarthy Stadium now has minimum requirements that meets the League’s standard.
“For now we are impressed with the upgrade they have. We visited and have seen what they have. This same venue was chosen for the opening match of the season but was denied disapproval because of their failure to put basic facilities in place.What they have now is better he stated”.
Ina note of warning, Mr. Alanana said that, “the permission to use the McCarthy Stadium is provisional and can be withdrawn if the Standard is not maintained, the NNL shall keep monitoring the facilities”.
Lobi Stars who adopted the Lafia, Jos, Bauchi and Enugu stadia for home games will host Doma United of Gombe at the McCarthy Stadium when the second stanza of the League resumes.
Chief Emmanuel Ujah, Media Director of the team sounding ecstatic, welcomed the development, saying, “it was long over due. It has not been easy playing home matches away from home”.
“Our thanks goes to the Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormen Alia and Team Chairman, Mr. Terver Ikya, who have ensured the return to Makurdi.
“Lobi Stars football club and the Benue football community will be the better for it. The team have been away from home for too long and starved of the needed home support required for superlative performances. With the return home, we will enjoy love and a larger support base”.
