The grand finale of the special task force, Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) Youth Peace and Unity Football Competition 2022/2023 organised by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division, Jos, Major-General Abdulsalam Abubakar, has ended at Rwang Pam Township Stadium Jos.
The match was between Kanke Lions FC of Plateau and Jama’a Local Government Authority FC of Kaduna State. It was aimed at fostering unity and curbing youth restiveness within the operational areas of coverage of OPSH of Bauchi, Kaduna and Plateau states.
The competition was also organised to combat insecurity and foster mutual understanding among the teeming youth of the three states.General Abubakar, in his remarks after the competition, advised the youth to prioritise unity whenever decisions are taken.
The Chief of Staff of the Operation, Brigadier-General A. A. Egbejule, represented the OPSH Commander. The Commander noted that the tournament was a worthy initiative aimed at building process and promoting grassroots sports development within OPSH Joint Operation Areas.
He called for harmonious living among people of different backgrounds, urging the youth to take the lead in ensuring peaceful co-existence for meaningful development of the states.
Abubakar urged the people present to be ambassadors of peace, warning the youth against activities that could threaten the peace of their respective communities.
He also cautioned the youth not to allow themselves to be used for nefarious activities that could affect their future; advising the footballers to make good use of the opportunity provided by the tournament to develop their potential towards becoming better players in the game of football.
At the end of the competition, the Kanke Lions FC of Plateau State defeated Jama’a local government of Kaduna State to win the tournament, while Sanga local government came third after defeating Tafawa Balewa Council of Bauchi.
Highlights of the events were presentation of medals, cash donation to first, second, third positions and individuals who distinguished themselves during the tournament.
