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From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
Benue State Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has honoured the five-time Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) champion and Super Falcons forward, Francisca Mlumun Ordega, with street naming, N50M and a house gift
The governor, who hosted the WAFCON champion to a dinner on Thursday evening at the New Banquet Hall, Government House, Makurdi, described her as “a shining example” and “an inspiration to every young girl in Benue and beyond.”
Alia acknowledged her role as a sports ambassador who has consistently represented the state and country with excellence saying “We are singing the common national song of victory with one of us, whom God chose to represent us and bring pride to our land.
“Ordega embodies the resilience and fighting spirit that Benue needs today,” Governor Alia added. “Forward ever for Benue, forward ever for Nigeria.”
“I invite parents to allow their daughters to enter the field. When guided, trained, and supported, they will return home as champions.”
Governor Alia reiterated his administration’s commitment to reviving sports in the state, citing the ongoing renovation of Aper Aku and McCarthy stadiums as part of wider efforts to restore Benue’s sporting glory.
He also pledged continued support for Lobi Stars Football Club, expressing optimism that the team would soon return to winning ways.
In recognition of Ordega’s remarkable achievements, the Governor announced several rewards including a street in Makurdi to be named after her, a N50 million cash gift, and a three-bedroom flat in the heart of the city.
He also commended Coach Randy Waldrum for discovering her talent, presenting him with a N10 million token of appreciation.
Speaking, Francisca Ordega expressed deep gratitude to Governor Alia, the Benue State Government, and the people of the state for the honour.
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She described the 2024 WAFCON victory as a triumph of perseverance, teamwork, and national pride.
“This is not just my personal achievement but a collective victory for Benue and Nigeria. We fought hard, we faced challenges, but we proved that with unity, discipline, and determination, we can overcome anything.”
She urged greater investment in women’s sports, stressing the need for proper infrastructure, training, mentorship, and scholarships for young girls. Through her Francisca Ordega Foundation, she pledged to partner with the state government in promoting sports development, education, health awareness, and community empowerment.
“Sports is more than competition; it is a tool for social change,” she said. “Let us create an environment where young girls can dream and achieve without limits.”
Also speaking, Chairman of the Benue State Football Association, Barr. Paul Edeh, lauded Governor Alia’s unprecedented contributions to sports development, including the revival of the Governor’s Cup after a decade and the introduction of a female category with equal prize money as the male teams.
He conveyed the goodwill message of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, who praised Ordega’s record of winning five of Nigeria’s ten WAFCON titles and commended the governor for his passion for football.
“Your Excellency, you are the most football-loving governor in Nigeria today,” Edeh stated, presenting a souvenir on behalf of the NFF and the Benue FA. “Francisca Ordega has not only made Benue proud but has inspired millions across Africa. Her story will continue to light the path for women’s football in this country.”
In attendance were the Majority Leader of the Benue State House of Assembly, Hon. Saater Tiseer, accompanied by other members of the Assembly; the Head of Service, Barr. Moses Atagher; the Technical Adviser on Entertainment and Community Outreach, Innocent Idibia, alongside his wife; as well as captains of industry, and notable personalities from the sports and music sectors, among others.
