The Initiative for Better and Brighter Nigeria (IBBN), Kaduna Chapter, on Thursday organised a football novelty tournament involving four Boys Brigade youth teams in Kaduna State as part of efforts to promote unity and peaceful coexistence among young people.
The tournament, held at the Local Education Authority (LEA) Primary School football field, Karatudu, brought together teams largely drawn from the Sabon Tasha, Karatudu, and Kudensa Battalions of the Boys Brigade.
Speaking shortly before kick-off, the Kaduna State Coordinator of IBBN, Amb. Christopher Pankyes, said the initiative was designed not only to foster unity and peace among youths from different communities, but also to encourage civic responsibility.
“The aim of this tournament is to promote unity and peace and to encourage you to educate other youths on the value of their voting power,” he said.
Continuing, Pankyes said: “Go back and tell people that Nigeria will be better and brighter. You have a role to play in the progress of this country. If you do not have a voter’s card, it is important to get one before next year’s election.”
The North-West Coordinator of the group, Musa El-Buba, performed the ceremonial kick-off to signal the commencement of the matches, drawing cheers from players and spectators.
In his remarks, Patron James Obadiah urged the participants to prepare themselves for leadership and positive change, describing them as a new generation capable of shaping a better future.
“You belong to a new breed that is not driven by greed. Brace up for the future and take your place in building the Nigeria we all desire,” he charged.
Two matches were played during the tournament. In the opening game, Kudensa Battalion FC from Mararaba Rido faced Sabon Tasha Battalion FC, with Sabon Tasha emerging victorious by a lone goal.
In the second encounter, Benfica Enenche Football Academy, Karatudu, defeated Immortal Manaco Football Club, Karatudu,1–0 in a tightly contested match.
At the end of the novelty tournament, each participating team was presented with a set of training jerseys and a FIFA-approved football to support their development and encourage sustained participation in sports.
Some players interviewed expressed optimism that the event would strengthen bonds among youths across communities and reinforce the message of unity, civic engagement and national development.
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