Yobe Desert Stars have dedicated their 1-0 away win against Adamawa United in the 2023 Nigeria National League (NNL) to Governor Mai Mala Buni who was re-elected on March 18 for another term of four years.
The Director of Sports in Yobe State and acting Chairman of Yobe Desert Stars, Dr Habu Abdulrahman Ago ‘FIFA’, told Daily Trust yesterday that the first away win for the club in the current season was a befitting gift to the governor, who is the number one supporter of the club.
“We dedicate this crucial away win to His Excellency, Mai Mala Buni CON, the executive governor of Yobe State for his unwavering support.
“Without his unflinching support, we wouldn’t have achieved the results we are celebrating today. The only way to appreciate him and justify his massive support is to keep winning,” said the retired FIFA referee.
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Abdulrahman also disclosed that in their bid to gain promotion back to the Nigerian topflight, the management of Yobe Desert Stars has entered into partnership with a renowned football administrator, Divine Benjamin Ogbonnaya, who is investing in the club.
According to him, the former Lobi Stars and Sunshine Stars’ top official is providing logistics, technical and managerial support to ensure that Yobe Stars regain their lost glory in Nigerian football.
“When the government recalled me to come and serve as acting chairman of the club, I felt we cannot depend 100% on the government for funding. We then approached a private investor, Divine Ogbonnaya, to partner with us in key areas which he has agreed.
“So, apart from his support in the area of transportation to away matches, payment of match bonuses, recruitment of players and technical crew members, he is also serving as the general manager of the club. Government is left with only the payment of players and officials’ salaries.
“We believe this will become a model to be emulated by other clubs in Nigeria. Government with its limited resources can’t fund sports alone,” said Abdulrahaman.
