By Deborah Mdima Adekaa.
The governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has rewarded Super Falcons forward, Francesca Ordega, with a house in Makurdi, fulfilling a pledge made in recognition of her outstanding contributions to Nigerian football.
The house, located at Unit 10, Fountain Estate, Makurdi, was formally presented to the international footballer on Friday by the governor’s representative, the Group Managing Director of Benue Investment and Property Company Limited (BIPC), Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, CFA.
Speaking during the presentation, Asemakaha said the gesture reflected the Alia administration’s appreciation of Ordega’s dedication, resilience and achievements, which have brought honour to Benue State and Nigeria.
He urged young people in the state to draw inspiration from the footballer’s journey, remain committed to their ambitions and make good use of their talents.
The governor, through his representative, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting talented individuals and ensuring that promises made in recognition of excellence are honoured.
Expressing gratitude, Ordega described the house donation as an encouraging gesture, appreciating Governor Alia for keeping his word.
She disclosed that the governor had also fulfilled the other promises made to her following the 2024/2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, including a ₦50 million reward, leaving only the proposed naming of a street after her outstanding.
According to her, she had been informed that the street would be named in her honour next year.
The Super Falcons star encouraged young people in Benue to remain focused, disciplined and determined, noting that hard work and perseverance were essential ingredients for success.
Also speaking, BIPC Head of Business Development and Strategy, Theresa Abeda, congratulated Ordega on the recognition, describing her achievements as a source of inspiration to aspiring athletes.
She called on youths in the state to emulate the footballer’s commitment to excellence and strive to make meaningful contributions in their respective fields.
The gesture highlights the state government’s effort to recognise outstanding Benue indigenes and encourage the next generation to pursue excellence in sports and other areas of endeavour