Handball stakeholders in Kogi State are advocating for a comprehensive leadership reform within the state’s Handball Association to restore the sport’s prominence.
The stakeholders highlighted the achievements and setbacks of Kogi State handball since its establishment in 1991, emphasizing the urgent need for change to rejuvenate the state’s handball culture.
They acknowledged Kogi State’s rich handball history, including notable successes such as winning national underage tournaments in the 1990s and representing Nigeria in international competitions. However, they expressed concern over the recent decline in participation and development initiatives, attributing these issues to challenges within the association’s leadership.
The stakeholders pointed out that Kogi’s premier league team, Confluence Stars, has faced financial constraints and a lack of support since 2020, leading some players to seek opportunities elsewhere. This has negatively impacted team cohesion and player morale. Additionally, the once-successful Confluence Queens female team has disbanded, further highlighting the need for intervention.
Much of the recent decline in the sport is attributed to the leadership of Mr. Jibrin Saidu, the current chairman of Kogi State Handball Association. Stakeholders allege that Mr. Saidu’s decisions, including withdrawing sponsorship and personal conflicts, have hindered Kogi’s participation in crucial national events, such as the under-12 and under-15 championships in Sokoto.
In response to these challenges, stakeholders are calling for the dissolution of the current board, citing a lack of effective leadership and commitment to the state’s handball development. They propose the formation of a new leadership structure to revitalize handball in Kogi State.
He has assured that if given the mandate, the Kogi State handball team will once again take its rightful place as champion.
Personal Information:- Father’s Name: Chief J.O Ogah- Mother’s Name: Mrs. Mary Udienma Ogah- Place of Birth: Idah- Primary School: QIC Nursery & Primary School, Graduation Year: 1990- Secondary School: OMGS Idah, Graduation Year: 1997- University: Kogi State, Graduation Year: 2007- NYSC: 2009 with Federal Ministry of Justice, Abuja- Work Experience: OMGS Idah, Federal Ministry of Justice, Abuja, Idrisima Global Services Limited, Abuja, Kingnazzy Nigeria Limited, Abuja, Currently the MD/CEO of Anarock Global Services Limited, Abuja
Organizational Memberships:- Member of Abuja Chamber of Commerce- Certified Member of United States Institute for Peace- Member of Kogi State University Alumni (Director of Social FCT Chapter)- Member of Kogi State Handball Veterans
Hobbies:- Reading, Traveling, Dancing, Handball
Favorite Sport:- Handball
Organizations Owned:- Anarock Global Services Ltd- Barger Consult Ltd- Mark Ogah Commercial Advancement Nigeria Limited- Age of Hope Organization- The Broom Revolution (An Audu Abubakar Campaign Organization)
Awards Received:- Humanitarian Award of Excellence from International Maritime 2004- Grandpix International Award for National Development 2016- Silver Award at the National Under 12 Handball Championship in Kogi State 1995- Silver Award at the National Under 12 Handball Championship in Funtua, Katsina State 1993
Articles Written:- “What About the Youths?”- “Godfatherism and Kogi Politics”- “
