The quarter-finals of the Berom Nation’s Cup have concluded, with four district teams advancing to the semi-finals. The teams—Kuru Wurom FC, Gyel Wurom FC, Za’ang Wurom FC, and Du Wurom FC—will compete for a spot in the finals on Thursday, April 3, and Friday, April 4, 2025. Notably, all four qualifying teams hail from Jos South LGA, as districts from Riyom, Barkin Ladi, and Jos were eliminated, while Bachi, Gashish, and Foron did not participate.
The tournament, which aims to promote grassroots football among the Berom people, has been a testament to dedication and sacrifice. The Main Organizing Committee (MOC), led by President Geoffrey Bottson, has worked tirelessly to ensure smooth operations, often covering costs personally. The unwavering support from district heads, particularly the Da Gwom Rwei of each participating district, has been instrumental in transporting teams and ensuring their participation. Additionally, the Berom Educational and Cultural Organization (BECO) has provided moral support, and large crowds have consistently attended matches in Riyom, Jos South, Barkin Ladi, and Du.
Despite the tournament’s success, financial challenges persist. Efforts to secure sponsorship fell short, with only a few individuals stepping forward, including a concerned Berom woman who donated ₦20,000 and a non-Berom coach/scout who contributed ₦100,000. Some stakeholders reportedly questioned the motives behind the initiative instead of offering support.
The tournament has also faced a significant controversy involving the Vwang District team. The issue arose when Gyel Wurom FC filed a petition against Vwang for fielding a non-Berom player. Before the tournament, BESDA had clearly stated that only Berom players were eligible to participate. However, during the opening match, a Gyel captain identified a Vwang player who allegedly did not meet the eligibility criteria. While Vwang officials initially denied the claim, it was later confirmed that the player was Igbo. Consequently, BESDA awarded the match points to Gyel.
Vwang Wurom FC protested the decision by refusing to play their subsequent match against Za’ang Wurom FC, disrupting the tournament. They later petitioned the Plateau Football Association (PFA), which ruled that Gyel had not provided enough evidence, leading to the restoration of Vwang’s points. However, BESDA officials, citing repeated violations—including fielding an ineligible player, refusing to play a scheduled match, and inciting violence—decided to suspend Vwang from the tournament.
The dispute escalated when PFA issued letters to BESDA questioning the suspension of Vwang Wurom FC. In response, BESDA maintained that the decision was an internal matter, guided by cultural norms. The tournament continued despite PFA’s attempts to intervene. Eventually, during a meeting in March 2025, PFA withdrew its partnership with the Berom Nation’s Cup while also retracting its earlier decision to suspend the competition. However, PFA Chairman Hon. Suleiman Kwande announced that the sports equipment he had promised to BESDA—including 10 balls, two sets of jerseys, and two sets of bibs—would instead be given to the Vwang District team.
Despite the challenges, BESDA remains committed to the development of sports in Beromland. The association has reassured fans that future editions of the Berom Nation’s Cup and other sports initiatives will continue without interference from external influences. The focus now shifts to the semi-finals, where the four remaining teams will battle for a chance to become the inaugural champions of the Berom Nation’s Cup.
Berom Nation’s Cup Is here to stay all thanks to the Berom Sports Development Association – BESDA
