The Benue State Football Association (BSFA) and Benue State University (BSU) Makurdi Friday signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at promoting grassroots football development and education in the state.
The partnership, dubbed EduBall Program, seeks to provide young footballers with the opportunity to pursue their academic and football careers simultaneously.
The program will offer scholarships, training, and resources to support the development of talented young players.
According to BSFA Chairman, Chief Dr. Paul Edeh Esq, the partnership will have a significant impact on the development of football in Benue State.
“This partnership is a game-changer for grassroots football development in our state.
“We are committed to providing opportunities for our young people to excel in both academics and sports.”
“The partnership is expected to benefit both parties, with BSU set to gain enhanced sports infrastructure, increased reputation and enrollment, and academic and athletic integration.
“BSFA will also benefit from access to BSU’s facilities, a talent pool for grassroots football, and enhanced visibility.
“The EduBall Program is a pioneering initiative that seeks to address the challenges faced by young footballers who are forced to choose between their academic and football careers.
“By providing a platform for young players to pursue both their academic and football goals, the program aims to promote holistic development and empower young people to achieve their full potential.
The MoU signing ceremony was attended by top officials from BSFA and BSU, including the Vice-Chancellor of BSU, Prof. Joe Tor Iorapuu.
Speaking, Prof. Tor Iorapuu, expressed his support for the EduBall initiative, a program aimed at promoting education and sports development among young people in the state.
Prof. Iorapuu described the EduBall initiative as “very critical” in shaping the education and sports talents of young people.
He emphasised that the programme would help develop the skills of young people at the grassroots level and attract them to BSU for their education.
The Vice Chancellor challenged the Department of Human Kinetics to take the initiative seriously and ensure that it achieves its objectives.
He also commended the donation of a trophy by the Benue Football Association to the university and praised the Students’ Government President for initiating the VC’s Cup.
