In a move to boost youth development through sports, the Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC) Tuesday announced plans to partner with Benue-born international football icon, Francesca Ordega OON, to establish a football academy for young girls across the state.
This was revealed by BIPC’s Group Managing Director, Dr Raymond Asemakaha, during a reception held in honor of Ordega’s historic fifth Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) win in Morocco. Dr Asemakaha praised the star athlete for her exceptional achievements, noting her vital role in elevating Benue’s name on the global sports map.
“We are thrilled to receive Francesca Ordega today. Our company may be business-oriented, but we’re fully committed to investing in ventures that align with social progress. Partnering with her on sports development is an honor,” he stated.
Beyond sports development, BIPC expressed full support for Ordega’s humanitarian outreach to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the state, an initiative she’s championing alongside the academy project.
Ordega, in her response, commended BIPC’s industrial strides and its commitment to producing homegrown brands like Zeva Premium Beer, Emperor Fertilizer, and solar-powered vehicles.
She emphasized the urgency of creating a nurturing platform for aspiring female footballers, calling the academy her “biggest dream.”
“This academy will be a stepping stone for countless girls who, like me, dream of playing on the world stage. I’m proud to do this for Benue,” Ordega affirmed.
Also speaking, Terver Bosua, BIPC’s Head of Finance and Accounts, applauded Ordega’s efforts in bringing international attention to Benue and underscored the company’s enthusiasm for the partnership.