Governor Alia Sacks Lobi Stars Management After Relegation

Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, has dissolved the Board and Management of the state-owned football club, Lobi Stars FC, following the team’s relegation from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

Lobi Stars, based in Makurdi, were demoted last season after 27 consecutive years in Nigeria’s top-flight football, a fall many attributed to the club’s prolonged poor performances.

The Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Sir Tersoo Kula, disclosed the dissolution in a statement issued on Thursday and made available to journalists in Makurdi.

According to Kula, the decision was part of Governor Alia’s ongoing reforms aimed at repositioning the club for “greater efficiency, accountability, and better performance” in the NPFL and other competitions.

“The decision is aimed at repositioning the club for greater efficiency, accountability, and better performance in both the Nigeria Premier Football League and other competitions,” the statement read.

Governor Alia directed that “all members of the dissolved management should hand over all official documents, assets, and responsibilities to the Commissioner for Youth, Sports and Creativity with immediate effect.”

While appreciating the contributions of the outgoing management, the governor noted that the club needed a new vision that aligns with his administration’s goals.

“The government values the efforts of those who have served the club over the years. However, the time has come for a new direction that reflects our vision for professionalism and transparency in sports administration,” Alia said.

Alia further disclosed that a new management structure would soon be announced to steer the next phase of Lobi Stars’ growth and competitiveness.

“The next leadership of Lobi Stars must demonstrate competence, passion, and accountability. Our focus is on building a club that inspires pride among Benue people and contributes meaningfully to the state’s sports development agenda,” he added.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring the club’s glory and ensuring it becomes a model of sports excellence in Nigeria.