Benue Arsenal family combines EPL title celebration with N3.2m Church donation, humanitarian outreach to IDPs

By Johnson Arua

Members of the Benue Arsenal Family have marked Arsenal Football Club’s English Premier League triumph with acts of charity and community service, donating N3.2 million to a church development project and providing relief materials to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Makurdi.

The supporters’ group made the donations on Sunday as part of activities organized to celebrate Arsenal’s league title success, ending a 22-year wait for the coveted trophy.

The celebration featured a thanksgiving Mass, a victory parade, watch parties and a humanitarian outreach to residents of the International Market IDP Camp in Makurdi.

During the outreach programme, the group donated a cow and other food items contributed by members to support displaced families affected by insecurity in the state.

Addressing the beneficiaries, Very Rev. Fr. Solomon Mfa Ukeyima encouraged them to remain hopeful despite the hardships they have endured.

He likened their situation to Arsenal’s long journey back to league glory, noting that perseverance often precedes victory.

“For 22 years Arsenal supporters kept believing and waiting for this moment. Your current challenges will not last forever. I believe the day will come when you will return home and rebuild your lives,” he said.

The high point of the celebration was the announcement of a N3.2 million donation towards the development of St. Mark’s Catholic Church, Apir.

Chairman of the Celebration Planning Committee, Hon. Orduen Ikon (OD Woods), said the money was raised through voluntary contributions from members of the Benue Arsenal Family.

He disclosed that Barr. Rommy Mom, Executive Director of Lawyers Alert, emerged as the highest individual contributor to the fundraising effort.

Earlier at the thanksgiving Mass, Rev. Fr. Isaiah Ter urged Christians to remain committed to God’s teachings and uphold family values.

According to him, obedience to the Word of God and respect for parents remain fundamental principles of the Christian faith.

“The teachings of the Church are founded on the Scriptures, and those who walk faithfully with God will continue to enjoy His grace and blessings,” he stated.

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

Beyond celebrating Arsenal’s league success, the event reflected the supporters’ commitment to social responsibility, faith and humanitarian service, demonstrating how sports can serve as a platform for community development and support for vulnerable groups.