By Sedara Oluwadara
Former Nigeria striker Benedict Akwuegbu says his reasons for floating his NLO side Ben Akwuegbu FC of Jos are to help young Nigerian players and give back to society.
Speaking with Sportgister.com.ng a few days after completing his official takeover of De-Grace FC, Abuja, a Nationwide Division One side, Akwuegbu, who played most of his club football in Austria, added that his mission is to build a very solid running club.
“Yes, I want to give back to society and encourage young Nigerian players by building a very solid and running club,” said the Jos-born man who contested the position of president at the Benin-City Nigeria Football Federation electoral congress in September.
The Nationwide League One (NLO) earlier this week confirmed that Ben Akwuegbu Football Club’s acquisition of an existing Division One slot and participation in the league beginning with the 2023 season.
However, following a letter signed by the Chief Operating Officer, Olushola Ogunnowo, of the league division governing body to the Plateau State Football Association, Ben Akwuegbu FC “must be an affiliate of the Plateau State Football Association since all the club’s home matches will be played in the state.
”To this end, Ben Akwuegbu FC are expected to liaise with Plateau State FA for players’ registration and other documentation as regards participation in the 2023 Nationwide League One season.
Akwuegbu has a long history with club ownership since his retirement from active football.
He started in Imo State, where he founded Akwuegbu United in 2003 and later formed Mbaise United, which then went on to represent Imo State alongside Heartland in the Federation Cup.
