…supports IDPs in EPL title celebration

By Peter Duru, Makurdi

The Benue Arsenal Family has donated N3.2 million to the development of St. Mark’s Catholic Church, Apir, while also extending humanitarian support to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Makurdi as part of celebrations marking Arsenal Football Club’s English Premier League title victory after a 22-year wait.

The supporters’ group made the donation on Sunday during a series of activities organized to commemorate the club’s historic league triumph.

The celebrations featured a parade, watch parties, a thanksgiving Mass and an outreach programme to IDPs at the International Market Camp in Makurdi.

As part of the humanitarian gesture, members of the Benue Arsenal Family donated a cow and other relief materials to displaced persons living in the camp, saying the initiative was aimed at sharing the joy of the club’s success with vulnerable members of society.

Speaking during the outreach, Very Rev. Fr. Solomon Ukeyima urged the displaced persons not to lose hope despite the challenges they face.

Drawing inspiration from Arsenal’s long wait for Premier League glory, the cleric encouraged the IDPs to remain optimistic about their future.

“Arsenal waited patiently for 22 years before lifting the trophy again. In the same way, I believe that one day you too will return to your homes and rebuild your lives,” he said.

Chairman of the Celebration Planning Committee (CPC), Orduen Ikon, popularly known as OD Woods, announced the N3.2 million donation to the church building project.

According to him, the funds were raised through contributions from members of the Benue Arsenal Family, with Mr. Rommy Mom, Executive Director of Lawyers Alert, emerging as the highest individual donor.

Earlier, during the thanksgiving Mass held as part of the celebrations, Rev. Fr. Isaiah Ter called on Christians to remain steadfast in their faith and uphold biblical teachings.

He stressed that the doctrines of the Catholic Church are firmly rooted in Scripture and urged believers to honour their parents and remain committed to God.

“Those who sincerely turn to God and live according to His word attract His favour and blessings,” the priest said.

The thanksgiving service was concelebrated by Rev. Fr. Isaiah Ter, Very Rev. Fr. Solomon Mfa Ukeyima and Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Agbiase.

The fans noted that the event highlighted the Benue Arsenal Family’s commitment to combining football passion with faith, community development and humanitarian service, using the club’s success as an opportunity to positively impact lives.