The Chairman of the Benue State Football Association and President of the Ratels Foundation, Chief Dr. Barrister Paul Edeh Esq., has expressed heartfelt gratitude after being nominated for the highly esteemed Newstap/SWAN Five-Star Award.
The nomination honors his exceptional dedication to sports development and philanthropy, particularly his efforts to advance grassroots and women’s football in Nigeria.
Dr. Edeh, who is the founder of Naija Ratels and Benue Queens, both prominent women’s football clubs, highlighted the significance of sports as a vehicle for societal transformation during a speech in Abuja.
“My voyage into football and sports in general is nothing but using it as a platform to make an enduring impact. My idea about life is not in acquiring or amassing wealth for personal gains but in touching lives from time to time,” he stated.
He dedicated the recognition to the lives impacted through the Ratels Sports Development Foundation, emphasizing the importance of empowering young people, particularly women, through meaningful engagement.
The National President of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, praised Dr. Edeh’s unwavering commitment to grassroots sports development and philanthropy while presenting the nomination letter. “Chief Dr. Paul Edeh has set a remarkable standard in sports administration and philanthropy.
His contributions, particularly through the Ratels Foundation, have transformed lives and inspired many to pursue their dreams through sports. This nomination is a well-deserved acknowledgment of his selfless service,” he said.
The prestigious awards ceremony is scheduled for February 27, 2025, in Lagos. Among other nominees are the Executive Governor of Benue State, Reverend Father Hycinth Alia, and Kunle Soname, President of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) side, Remo Stars.
Dr. Edeh expressed immense appreciation for the recognition, viewing it as a validation of his lifelong mission to foster development and inclusivity in society.
