Benue Governor’s Cup returns after 8-year hiatus

The Benue State Football Association (BSFA) on Thursday officially announced the revival and commencement of the Governor’s Cup Competition, marking its return after eight years.

Chairman of BSFA, Barrister Paul Edeh, while addressing journalists in Makurdi, the Benue state capital, expressed pride in the return of the long-anticipated tournament.

He said “Today we are proud to announce the return of the much-anticipated Governor’s Cup, an event that has been absent from our state for over eight years.”

Edeh credited Governor Hyacinth Alia for the revival of the tournament, noting that it symbolises a renewed commitment to grassroots football development.

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He emphasised the importance of the competition as a platform for nurturing young talent and fostering unity, particularly in communities affected by herder conflicts.

The BSFA chairman also announced that the President of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, has pledged his presence at both the opening and final matches of the tournament, promising to donate the trophy to be awarded at the final event.

Edeh added that the victorious team at the end of the tournament will take home N10m cash prize while the second and third-placed teams will receive N6 million and N4 million, respectively just as consolation prizes will also be given to outstanding performers.

He, therefore, called on the people of Benue and the media to support the event and promote the sport in the lead-up to the tournament.

The Commissioner for Youth, Sports and Creativity, Hon. Terkimbi Ikyange, represented by the Permanent Secretary John Akume, also expressed delight at the return of the Governor’s Cup, pledging full support for its success.

Our correspondent reports that the 2024 Governor’s Cup will feature all the 23 local government areas in the state.

Based on the approval of the governor, the tournament will begin on October 1, with a zonal conference taking place in four zones and will culminate with a Super 8 competition.