Lobi Stars Chairman, Ikya battles N200m debt, eyes NPFL return

By Ola Adeniyi

The chairman of Lobi Stars Football Club, Terver Ikya, has opened up about the heavy financial and operational burdens he inherited when he took over the club, revealing debts of over N200 million and ongoing legal battles.

Speaking recently, Ikya painted a picture of a club struggling to stay afloat, with low team morale, unresolved coaching disputes, and an oversized squad of 67 contracted players.

He criticised the previous administration for running the club “like a charity organisation,” stressing the need for professional management.

“One of the biggest challenges was a club structure that was not built for success. We cannot compete at the top level if we don’t run the club professionally,” Ikya said.

Among Lobi Stars’ major financial obligations is a coastal bus loan, with a court ruling requiring the club to pay N47 million. The team is also embroiled in more than 16 arbitration cases, including a high-profile dispute with former coach Daniel Amokachi.

Despite these setbacks, Ikya highlighted the resilience of the squad, which finished second in the Nigeria National League last season, narrowly missing promotion to the Nigerian Premier Football League.

“Our aim this season is clear: promotion. We have no room for excuses,” he said.
Ikya outlined early interventions by his administration, including returning the team to Makurdi after an expensive stint in Nasarawa deprived them of home support.

He also plans to streamline the squad to 35 players, promoting five from the youth ranks, with recruitment strictly based on merit.

Addressing concerns about staff salaries, the chairman explained that delays were due to a bank transition to Novus Bank but reassured that payments are now up to date.

On sponsorship, he confirmed that the club is actively seeking major partners to support kits and other logistical needs.

Highlighting positive achievements despite the financial strain, Ikya noted that Lobi Stars was recently recognised as one of the most disciplined teams in the league, while Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia received the award for best supporting club sponsor.

“Now that we have the chance to build a team on our own terms, promotion is not just a target, it is a must,” Ikya concluded confidently.