Sports
Engr Chiroma to Nigerian Youth: Take Sports Seriously, It’s a Platform for Opportunity and Unity
By Joel Ajayi
Ambassador of the 2025 Kingdom Unity Games, Engineer Joseph Chiroma, has called on Nigerian youth to take sports seriously, describing it as not only a tool for unity but also a growing economic opportunity.
Chiroma made the appeal on Saturday during the grand finale of the maiden edition of the Games at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, where Dunamis FC edged ECWA Wumba 1–0 to claim the inaugural trophy.
According to him, the timing of the event could not have been more significant. “Our country is navigating moments of tension—tribal, religious, and social divisions. But through platforms like this, we are reminded of the power of unity and the importance of coming together,” he said.
He stressed the importance of engaging young people in positive, structured activities, noting that sports provide a pathway to discipline, leadership, and future opportunities.
“When young people participate in activities like sports, they are less likely to fall into harmful or destructive paths. Instead, they develop progressive thinking—thinking that prepares them to contribute meaningfully to the future of this nation,” Chiroma added.
Highlighting the inclusivity of the Games, he noted that while the initiative was Christian-led, it was by no means exclusive: “When we step onto the field, faith and tribe no longer matter—we are all Nigerians. That is the beauty of events like this.”
He further encouraged youth to find a sporting activity to engage in, whether athletics, basketball, volleyball, or other disciplines. “Sport is no longer just recreation. It has become a viable economic opportunity that creates jobs, generates income, and contributes to national development. I encourage all youth across Nigeria to take sports seriously—as a tool for unity, growth, and empowerment,” he urged.
The 2025 edition of the Kingdom Unity Games will feature three major categories:
- Football – 24 male teams drawn from churches representing five major Christian blocs
- Basketball – 16 male and female teams
- Volleyball – 16 male and female teams
In all, 32 teams will compete for cash prizes, medals, branded kits, and surprise rewards. While currently FCT-based, organisers revealed that the long-term plan is to expand the Games into a full national event by 2026, with participation from all 36 states.
Convener of the Games, Ambassador Solomon Omonokhua, reiterated the vision of the initiative: “This competition is about more than football. It is about building bridges between churches, fostering peace and unity, and giving our youth a platform to showcase their gifts. We are hopeful some players here will catch the eye of scouts and clubs, and bring pride to Nigeria,” he said.
On the pitch, Team Dunamis FC made history by clinching the maiden title with their early strike against ECWA Wumba, holding off pressure until the final whistle. In the third-place playoff, ECWA Kwali edged ECWA Karasana 1–0 in a closely fought encounter.
Organisers concluded that beyond the competition, the Games stand as a vehicle for peace-building, talent discovery, and the strengthening of bonds across communities and faith groups in Nigeria.
Sports
Nigeria Jets Out Tuesday for 2025 Hockey AFCON as Federation President Engr Nkom Backs Teams for Podium Finish
Joel Ajayi
With the 2025 Hockey African Cup of Nations (AFCON) set to take place in Egypt from October 11 to 18, both the men’s and women’s national hockey teams are set to depart Nigeria on October 7, brimming with confidence and determination to make the nation proud.
The President of the Hockey Federation of Nigeria (HFN), Engineer Simon Nkom, speaking after a series of friendly matches at the Hockey Pitch, Package B of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, said the teams’ early preparation and intensive training camps have positioned them for a successful outing in Egypt.
“In sports—whether it’s hockey, handball, or basketball—fitness is key. That’s why we began camping weeks ago to build the players’ strength and resilience ahead of this major competition. This is the African Cup of Nations—the highest level of hockey on the continent. We’ve prepared well, and I’m confident our teams will finish on the podium,” he stated.
Nkom highlighted the significant progress Nigerian hockey has recorded in recent years, noting that the country’s world ranking improved from 56th to 36th, while in Hockey 5s, Nigeria now stands 12th globally.
“A few years ago, people barely knew hockey existed in Nigeria. Today, our women’s team ranks 3rd in Africa, and the men’s team is 4th. This growth is a product of deliberate grassroots development and consistent effort,” he added.
To ensure smooth participation and avoid past challenges of late arrivals at tournaments, the federation has finalized logistics for early departure.
“We’ve made all arrangements for the teams to leave early to acclimatize and play friendly matches before the competition begins. The players are motivated, relaxed, and ready to give their best. By God’s grace, they will return home with their heads held high,” Nkom assured.
The HFN President also lauded the federation’s board members for their commitment and teamwork over the past four years, which he said has greatly contributed to the sport’s steady rise in Nigeria.
Head coach Ndana Baba Abdullahi, who oversees both the men’s and women’s teams, praised the federation’s support and lauded the players’ work ethic throughout the extended training camp.
“We’ve worked very hard — morning and evening sessions, tactical drills, conditioning. The players have responded excellently. We started with 35 players and are now down to the final 18 who will make the trip,” Abdullahi said, adding that the early arrival in Egypt would give Nigeria a crucial psychological and tactical edge.
Men’s team captain, Michael John, expressed confidence in the squad’s readiness and determination to make history in Egypt.
“We’re perfectly fine — we’ve trained hard and prepared well,” he said. “We’re just waiting for the whistle to blow. By God’s grace, we won’t disappoint our country or those who worked hard to send us there.”
Similarly, women’s team captain, Alfa Cornelius, echoed optimism about the team’s prospects.
“We’ve been camping for over a month, and the coaches have done a wonderful job. We’ve worked hard to match our opponents in both strength and skill. I’m 100% confident that we’ll perform excellently in Egypt,” she said.
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