Passionate fans of former Nigerian League and Cup champions, Lobi Stars, in the North Central geo-political zone, showed their power and dominance by voting massively to earn the team a place in the newly introduced NaijaSuper8 tournament.
At an impressive event televised live by one of the tournament’s sponsors, SuperSport and anchored by its presenters, Chisom Mbonu-Ezeoke as well as Mozez Praiz, Lobi Stars, was announced as one of the teams voted by fans.
The live audience at the SuperSport studio erupted in ecstacy as Lobi Stars FC was announced.
Voting process in NaijaSuper8 tournament was managed and audited by Deloitte, the same company which handled the voting process for Big Brother Naija.
Abuja based second tier side, City FC, also earned votes by fans to reach the tournament.
Others nominated, but failed to progress from the zone include Plateau United, Nasarawa United, Kwara United, Kogi United and Niger Tornadoes.
Clearly one of the best in fan engagement, Lobi Stars utilised its social media channels on Facebook and Twitter (@LobiStars), to rally its fans, fondly called Lobi Stars Army to boost chances of making it to the tournament.
Club Vice-Chairman and CEO, Dominic Iorfa, applauded fans of the club for the impressive feat.
“We dedicate this to the fans because their votes made it for us. Now they can enjoy the excitement with us.
“Moreover, this will serve as a morale booster as we prepare for the Federation Cup Quarter finals against Warri Wolves, on Sunday and the Nigeria Premier Football League Super 6.
“Our players have been exceptional this season and are determined to make the fans and Benue State government, who sponsor Lobi Stars proud”, he said.
Both teams from the zone will meet at Eket, in Akwa Ibom State, next month to determine who makes it to the final phase of the tournament to be decided at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, in July.
Packaged by the innovative Flykite Productions, other sponsors include DStv, GOtv, MTN, moniepoint, HERO Lager and PEPSI.
