Makurdi, Benue State — October 23, 2025:
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has approved the immediate dissolution of the Board and Management of Lobi Stars Football Club, Makurdi, following the team’s relegation from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after nearly three decades of top-flight participation.
The decision, announced on Thursday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Tersoo Kula, marks a major shake-up in the management structure of the state-owned football club. The move is part of what the state government described as a broader reform agenda aimed at repositioning Lobi Stars for “greater efficiency, accountability, and improved performance.”
A 27-Year Top-Flight Legacy Ends
Lobi Stars FC, founded in 1981 and owned by the Benue State Government, had maintained continuous presence in Nigeria’s top football division for 27 years until their relegation at the end of the 2024/2025 NPFL season.
The club’s demotion shocked many football enthusiasts across the state and beyond, as Lobi Stars had been one of Nigeria’s most consistent sides, featuring prominently in both domestic and continental competitions.
During their long stay in the NPFL, the “Pride of Benue,” as the team is fondly called, won the league title in 1999 and finished as runners-up in the 2018 season, earning a place in the CAF Champions League.
However, in recent seasons, Lobi Stars struggled to maintain form, suffering from administrative challenges, poor recruitment, and financial instability—issues analysts say contributed to their decline.
Governor Alia’s Reform Agenda
In the statement signed by Sir Tersoo Kula, the governor emphasized that the dissolution was necessary to reposition the club for success.
“His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has approved the immediate dissolution of the Board and Management of Lobi Stars Football Club, Makurdi, as part of ongoing efforts to reform and reposition the club for greater efficiency, accountability, and better performance,” the statement read.
Governor Alia, who has repeatedly stressed the need for transparency and accountability in all state institutions, reportedly intends to introduce a new management model for the club—one that prioritizes professionalism, youth development, and sustainable funding.
Although no new appointments were immediately announced, sources within the Benue State Ministry of Youth, Sports and Creativity hinted that an interim committee may soon be constituted to oversee the club’s operations pending the announcement of a substantive board.
Mixed Reactions Trail Decision
The governor’s decision has sparked mixed reactions among stakeholders and fans of the club. While some supporters welcomed the move as timely and necessary, others cautioned against what they described as “frequent political interference” in the management of sports institutions.
A supporter, Mr. Johnson Agbo, told journalists in Makurdi that the governor’s action was expected after the club’s poor performance last season.
“We’ve been waiting for this. Lobi Stars have not been the same in the past few years. We hope the new management will bring in real professionals who understand football administration,” Agbo said.
However, another fan, Mrs. Martha Tyoh, urged the government to focus on addressing deeper issues affecting the club, including player welfare and infrastructure.
“Sacking the board is not enough. The players need better conditions, proper training facilities, and motivation. Without that, no management can perform miracles,” she said.
A Club in Transition
The dissolution comes at a critical time for Lobi Stars FC as preparations intensify for the upcoming Nigeria National League (NNL) season. The team will be expected to fight for promotion back to the NPFL, but many observers believe the club requires significant restructuring to meet that goal.
Sports analysts also noted that Governor Alia’s move aligns with his broader strategy to revamp sports in Benue State. Since taking office, the governor has expressed his commitment to restoring the state’s lost glory in sports by investing in grassroots development and improving facilities.
The Road Ahead
As fans await the unveiling of a new management team, the immediate task will be rebuilding the club’s confidence and restoring its competitive edge. Analysts have urged the state government to ensure that whoever takes charge of Lobi Stars possesses a deep understanding of modern football management and a clear roadmap for long-term success.
Football experts also advised that the next phase should prioritize:
- Player development and scouting within Benue and neighboring states.
- Financial transparency to ensure prompt payment of player salaries and bonuses.
- Infrastructure upgrades, especially at the Aper Aku Stadium, Makurdi.
- Commercialization and private sector partnerships to reduce dependence on government funding.
A Turning Point for Benue Football
For a club with Lobi Stars’ history and prestige, relegation represents not just a sporting setback but also a test of leadership and resilience. Governor Alia’s intervention, though drastic, could mark the beginning of a revival if implemented with sincerity and foresight.
As the club embarks on this new chapter, all eyes will be on the Benue State Government to deliver a transparent, merit-driven reform that can restore the Pride of Benue to its rightful place among Nigeria’s football elites.
