The Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Abuja chapter, announced second edition of their Football Tournament, themed “Football for Friendship and Peace.”
He highlighted that the three-day tournament aims to enhance relationships between the media and participating organizations, particularly security agencies. The use of football as a medium promotes synergy and unity, transcending language, religion, ethnicity, and politics.
Football is a unifying force that fosters physical fitness and mental well-being, crucial in the current economic climate. This year’s tournament features fourteen teams, an increase from the eight in the inaugural 2023 edition. Participating teams include the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Nigerian Police Force, Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Nigerian Immigration Services (NIS), Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Federal High Court, Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), AIBEN Group, Sport Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), National Orientation Agency (NOA), and NUJ.
Mr. Jide stated that the tournament is a knockout format, with matches scheduled for July 11th and 12th, and the final on July 13th at Area 10 football field, Old Parade Ground, Garki, Abuja. Prizes include a cash award, a trophy, and medals. A novelty match between the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and former NUJ FCT Council Chairmen and veterans will precede the final. Additionally, the first 50 attendees will receive raffle tickets for valuable prizes.
The Chairman emphasized NUJ’s commitment to empowering women and eliminating gender bias, affirming that women can excel equally in all endeavors. The tournament is expected to draw football enthusiasts, government officials, industry leaders, diplomats, media executives, and other dignitaries.
He urged all participants to demonstrate true sportsmanship, adhere to the rules, and prioritize fair play. The tournament’s theme emphasizes participation over victory, reflecting the Olympic spirit.
Ground rules and regulations will be provided to team leaders and representatives. The Chairman called for support and sponsorship from sport-friendly organizations and individuals to sustain the tournament’s success.
Medical check-ups for all players, facilitated by TI’ Bilon Healthcare Foundation, will be conducted before the games commence, possibly extending to team managers and coaches due to on-field stress.
The NUJ correspondent chapel aims not only to win the trophy but also to showcase soccer fundamentals to other teams. The tournament’s brand ambassador, Mr. Chikelue Iloenyosi, a former Super Eagles defender and Chairman of Anambra State Football Association, was unveiled.
Acknowledgments were given to major partners and supporters, including the Managing Director of AIBEN GROUP, Mr. Andy Elerewe, and other sponsors such as Transcorp Hilton, Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), Ti Bilon Construction, China General Chambers of Commerce in Nigeria, Julius Berger Nigeria, Nigerian Red Cross Society, Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), FCT Football Association, Federal High Court, Liberty TV, Police Radio, and Thenewsguru.
Finally, he thanked the Chairman of the FCT Council, committee members, and the executives of the FCT Correspondents Chapel for their unwavering support in making the event a success.
