Sports have lifted Benue after tragic herdsmen invasions, says Ortom

Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom at the weekend expressed delight that sporting activities, particularly football, were gradually lifting the spirit of the people after a series of tragic invasions by cattle herders.

Speaking at the Benue Peoples’ House in Makurdi while receiving trophies won by Benue-born international women football star, Francisca Ordega, Ortom said something good was coming out of the state.

He added that Lobi Stars, which won the national football league last season, was currently representing Nigeria at the Confederation of African Football Champions League, stressing that it was heartwarming for the state to be reckoned with after all it had gone through.

He congratulated Ordega for making the state proud by her outstanding performance in football, saying he was impressed that a Benue daughter was making waves in female football. Ordega, who is currently one of Africa’s best three Women Players of the Year, dedicated her medals to Ortom, whom she described as a loving and caring father.

She noted that she had always been spurred to work hard in order to encourage the girl-child, especially those who have taken to football, pointing out that her promise to make Ortom and Benue people proud also led to her impressive performance.