Lobi Stars Football Club of Makurdi has appointed Finnish coach Mika Lönnström as the new head coach of the club. The announcement was made during a ceremony in Makurdi on Wednesday, where club chairman Philip Nongu shared that Lönnström’s appointment is part of efforts to improve the team’s performance and competitiveness.
Nongu welcomed the new coach, emphasizing that Lönnström’s expertise and dedication would help elevate the team. “We are gathered here today to introduce Mr. Lönnström to the Benue community, the players, and sports journalists. He will work alongside the technical crew with the aim of improving the club’s current position,” said Nongu.
The chairman assured the public that the club’s current standing in the league is temporary, expressing optimism that the team will soon rise out of the relegation zone. He also urged the players to maintain discipline, stressing that it would no longer be “business as usual.”
Lönnström’s appointment was further supported by James Iorpuu, a board member, who congratulated the coach and assured him of the necessary support. Iorpuu also praised Governor Hyacinth Alia for his unwavering commitment to sports and his vision for Lobi Stars to compete at the highest level.
Technical adviser Daniel Amokachi expressed enthusiasm about Lönnström joining the club, noting that his work ethic and experience would bring positive change. “In modern football, young players who work tirelessly are essential, and we are excited to work with them, especially as we await the opening of the transfer window for further decisions,” Amokachi said.
In his remarks, Lönnström expressed his excitement about joining the Nigeria Premier Football League side and the club’s rich history. He pledged to work diligently to lead Lobi Stars to success in the coming seasons.
