Benue State Honors WAFCON Champion Francisca Ordega with Street Naming, N50 Million, and House Gift

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has officially recognized the outstanding achievements of Francisca Mlumun Ordega, a five-time Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) champion and Super Falcons forward, by naming a street after her and awarding her N50 million alongside a three-bedroom house in Makurdi.

The governor hosted a special dinner in Ordega’s honor at the Government House’s New Banquet Hall, praising her as an inspiring figure and role model for young girls in Benue State and beyond. He described her as a symbol of resilience and a source of pride for the state and the nation.

Governor Alia emphasized Ordega’s impact as a sports ambassador who consistently brings honor to Benue and Nigeria. He encouraged parents to support their daughters in sports, stressing that with proper guidance and training, they can achieve championship status.

Highlighting his administration’s dedication to reviving sports in the state, the governor referenced ongoing renovations at Aper Aku and McCarthy stadiums and pledged continued support for the local football club, Lobi Stars.

In addition to the street naming, cash prize, and house gift, Coach Randy Waldrum, credited for discovering Ordega’s talent, was presented with a N10 million token of appreciation by the governor.

Francisca Ordega expressed heartfelt thanks to the governor, the state government, and the people of Benue for the recognition. Reflecting on the 2024 WAFCON victory, she called it a testament to perseverance, teamwork, and national pride.

“This is not only my personal success but a collective triumph for Benue and Nigeria. Despite challenges, we demonstrated that unity, discipline, and determination can conquer all,” she stated.

Ordega also urged increased investment in women’s sports, advocating for enhanced infrastructure, training, mentorship, and scholarships. Through her Francisca Ordega Foundation, she committed to collaborating with the state government to promote sports development, education, health awareness, and community empowerment.

“Sports transcends competition; it is a catalyst for social change. We must create opportunities where young girls can dream big and achieve without limits,” she affirmed.

The Chairman of the Benue State Football Association, Barr. Paul Edeh, praised Governor Alia’s unprecedented commitment to sports, including the revival of the Governor’s Cup with an equal prize for female participants. He also conveyed goodwill from the Nigeria Football Federation President, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, who lauded Ordega’s role in securing half of Nigeria’s WAFCON titles and commended the governor’s passion for football.

The event was attended by notable government officials, including the Majority Leader of the Benue State House of Assembly, Hon. Saater Tiseer, the Head of Service Barr. Moses Atagher, as well as prominent figures from sports and entertainment sectors.