Plateau State’s Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) has initiated a remarkable sporting event called the Major General AB Ibrahim Peace and Unity Football Competition 2023, aiming to foster unity among the youth from diverse communities in Southern Kaduna, Kaduna State.
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The Football Competition, which commenced last week at the Sanga Council Township Stadium, has ignited excitement among people of all ages, with participants eager to showcase their skills and gain recognition.
Lt. Col. Ishaku Takwa, the Acting Deputy Director of Information to the General Officer Commanding (GOC) Three Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander of OPSH, Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim, expressed his appreciation to the youths for enthusiastically participating in this healthy competition.
He emphasized that the Football Competition would bolster civil-military relations through the medium of sports, forming a part of OPSH’s non-kinetic approach to conflict resolution and peace-building efforts.
Representing Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim, DCP Tazangwu Iyua, the Deputy Commander of OPSH, highlighted the organization’s commitment to exploring credible avenues in its mission to establish lasting peace in the region.
He stressed that the Football Competition and other non-kinetic activities organized by OPSH aim to promote peaceful coexistence and enhance human relationships within its jurisdiction.
Addressing the participating teams, the GOC congratulated them and urged them to embody the spirit of sportsmanship during and after the tournament. He also encouraged them to support the security agents who work tirelessly to ensure the safety of their communities.
Major Mohammed Galadima, the Commander of the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Sanga, revealed that the football tournament offers a platform for capable youths from various chiefdoms to showcase their talents.
He mentioned that the winners would be rewarded with trophies and generous cash prizes.
Moreover, he emphasized that the competition’s true significance lies in facilitating interaction and fostering unity among youths from different ethnic and religious backgrounds. Notably, one of the participating teams comprises Fulani residents, highlighting the inclusive nature of the tournament.
Major Galadima expressed his gratitude towards Major General Abdulsalami Ibrahim for his exceptional leadership and support for the competition.
He assured everyone that Operation Safe Haven would take decisive action against any individual found harboring or supporting criminal activities.
Bissallam Mallam, the Chairman of Sanga Local Government Area, commended the unwavering efforts of security agencies, particularly OPSH, in promoting peaceful coexistence among the people.
Similarly, Dan Amos, the representative of Jemaa/Sanga Federal Constituency, emphasized the need for the youth to transcend their differences and embrace unity, cooperation, and peaceful coexistence, acknowledging the unifying power of sports worldwide.
Overall, the Major General AB Ibrahim Peace and Unity Football Competition 2023 stands as a testament to the commitment of OPSH to fostering harmony and strengthening relationships within the community.
The tournament provides an excellent opportunity for talented individuals to shine and promotes the values of sportsmanship and camaraderie among participants.
