The Benue State Government has assured that Aper Aku Stadium and other facilities to be used for the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Championship League matches will be ready before November ending.
Acting Governor of the state, Benson Abounu, stated this while receiving CAF officials and their Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) counterparts in Makurdi on Thursday.
The team from the continental and national football bodies was in the state on an inspection tour of facilities for the forthcoming CAF Champions League.
The acting governor, who doubles as chairman of Lobi Stars Football Club, expressed optimism that his team will do the nation proud by winning the trophy.
He promised that the state will do everything possible to boost the morale of the players and handlers and ensure a successful hosting of the tournament.
“I thank God that the boys are in high spirit, very high spirit and with that kind of spirit; the sky will be their limit.
“The whole nation is expecting Lobi Stars to do what has not been done in the last 15 years. Before the match kicks off on the 27th of this month, we believe the stadium will be in a very good state,” ” Mr. Abounu said.
Nigeria last won the championship 15 years ago and ever since, no club in the country has gotten close to lifting the trophy.
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But the Benue State Government said it is poised to bring the cup home and called for the support of Nigerians.
The CAF/NFF inspection team led by Salisu Abubaka, congratulated the state government and Lobi Stars for representing the country well.
He said they were in Makurdi to inspect the stadium and other facilities in readiness of the league matches and club licensing.
While inspecting the pitch at the Aper Aku Stadium, the team expressed satisfaction with the ongoing rehabilitation and beautification of the facility.
The Vice Chairman of Lobi Stars, Mike Idoko, appealed to club sides in the country to help facilitate players’ licenses and to support the hosting of the championship.
