Sports

Logistics Hindered Benue’s Participation in Parade – Delegation Officer

Published

2 weeks ago

May 20, 2025

…Reiterates Government Support for Sports Development

By Joel Ajayi

The Desk Officer of the Benue State delegation at the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival (NSF), Tse Cephas Tarbwe, has attributed the state’s absence from the match-past parade to logistical challenges.

It will be recalled that during the match-past on Sunday, Benue State was notably absent — a development that drew the attention of stakeholders and observers.

Addressing journalists on Tuesday in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Mr. Tarbwe described the situation as a case of force majeure — an unforeseen circumstance that can affect any team.

“In sports, we all understand that force majeure can occur at any time,” he explained. “We began our journey as planned, and even deployed an advance team to participate in the parade. However, upon arrival, unexpected challenges emerged, forcing us to prioritize other urgent matters.”

He added, “It’s a long journey from Benue to Abeokuta. I was present here as well, but due to the situation, I had to remain outside. We simply had to focus on what was most important at the moment.”

Speaking on the efforts of the Benue State Government under the leadership of Governor Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia, Mr. Tarbwe reiterated the administration’s commitment to revamping sports infrastructure and promoting talent development.

“Since Governor Alia assumed office, we’ve adopted a holistic approach to sports development. Many of our facilities were in a state of disrepair, but contractors are currently rehabilitating them. The governor believes in building a solid foundation by first restoring infrastructure before expanding to other areas,” he said.

“For instance, in track and field, we brought only a few athletes due to the current lack of adequate facilities. But today, some of them have already begun warming up on this track — and that shows progress.”

Mr. Tarbwe emphasized that despite missing the parade, Benue State is fully participating in the Gateway Games, with a delegation of over 243 athletes and officials.

He expressed optimism that the state would give its best performance and make a strong showing in its areas of strength.

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Sports

Paul Salami Fires Hat-Trick as U23 Side Defeats 10-Man Melbourne Sharks

Published

15 hours ago

June 3, 2025

The Gleamer

Jeph Akanji

Paul Salami’s Stunning Hat-Trick Sinks 10-Man Melbourne Sharks in U23 Showdown

Nigerian-born midfielder Paul Salami stole the show with a sensational hat-trick, leading his side to a dominant 3-0 victory over the Melbourne Sharks in Week 9 of the Australian U23 League.

The 21-year-old rising star opened the scoring in the 20th minute, calmly finishing off a swift counter-attack to put his team ahead. The momentum shifted further in their favor when Sharks defender Liam Mastos received a straight red card in the 40th minute for a reckless challenge, forcing the home side to play with 10 men.

Salami continued to exploit the numerical advantage with clinical precision. He netted his second goal in the 52nd minute, capping off a well-orchestrated team move, before sealing his hat-trick in the 75th minute with a composed finish that left the goalkeeper with no chance.

Operating with poise and creativity in midfield, Salami’s performance was a masterclass in attacking intelligence, control, and execution. His match-winning display not only earned him the match ball but also solidified his growing reputation as one of the most exciting young talents in the league.

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