Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has taken a proactive step in addressing the financial management of Lobi Stars Football Club by establishing a forensic panel to audit the club’s finances. This decision was made public through a statement issued by the club’s media officer, Emmanuel Ujah, following a meeting between the governor and Daniel Amokachi, the newly appointed technical adviser for Lobi Stars, at the Government House in Makurdi. The governor’s initiative stems from ongoing concerns regarding the payment of salaries to players and club officials. Even though the state government has financial obligations towards the club, there have been continued complaints of unpaid salaries, highlighting significant issues in the management of the club’s finances that necessitate further scrutiny.
The forensic panel will comprise experienced auditors, specifically Mr. Sam Chir, Mr. Bishop Dzungwe, Mr. Akpusugh Terungwa, and Dr. Gberindyer Chia. Each member brings a wealth of expertise in financial auditing, which is crucial for uncovering any discrepancies and providing recommendations to improve the financial management of Lobi Stars. The governor underscored the importance of this audit not only for the club but also for the welfare of the players and staff, as their salaries are critical to maintaining morale and performance levels. By commissioning this audit, Governor Alia aims to address the root causes of the financial turmoil impacting the club and to restore trust among stakeholders.
During the meeting, Governor Alia expressed confidence in Amokachi’s capabilities, citing his illustrious international football career as a motivating factor for improving the club’s performance. The governor encouraged the new technical adviser to leverage his expertise to turn around the fortunes of Lobi Stars, which has been facing challenges on and off the pitch. In a symbolic gesture of support, the governor presented Amokachi with a branded jersey of Lobi Stars — an indication of unity and hope for the club’s revival. This act illustrates the governor’s commitment to fostering a positive atmosphere around the team and reviving interest in football within the region.
Amokachi, in his remarks at the meeting, expressed gratitude to Governor Alia and the people of Benue for their warm welcome. He acknowledged the importance of timely salary payments as a significant motivational factor for players, directly influencing their performance in the league. By prioritizing the welfare of the players through consistent salary payments, Amokachi aims to enhance the team’s cohesiveness and effectiveness on the pitch. His appreciation for the support received from the state highlights the critical relationship between the club, its management, and the local government in promoting sports development and achieving desired results.
Additionally, the chairman of Lobi Stars FC, Dr. Philip Nongu, emphasized the purpose of his visit to the Government House, which was to introduce the new technical adviser to the governor. His attendance at this gathering signifies the collaborative efforts among the club’s management, the technical staff, and the state government to address the challenges facing the team. This alignment is essential for laying the foundation for future success and ensuring that the club’s objectives are met, including financial stability and improved performance in the league.
In conclusion, Governor Hyacinth Alia’s establishment of a forensic audit panel for Lobi Stars FC signals a significant step towards revitalizing the football club in Benue State. By addressing financial mismanagement and ensuring timely salary payments for players and staff, the initiative aims to create a more sustainable and supportive environment for the club’s athletes. The engagement of experienced auditors and the collaboration among stakeholders highlight a concerted effort to turn around Lobi Stars’ fortunes and restore its status in Nigerian football. As Daniel Amokachi embarks on his new role as technical adviser, there is hope that his leadership will lead to improved performance on the field, ultimately benefiting the club, its players, and the wider community.
