…Targets talent discovery
The town of Daddare in Obi Local Government Area was thrilled to spectators delight with the kickoff of the 10th edition of the Mailafia Unity Cup as defending champions Matawalle FC engaged Buwama FC in the opening match.
The first half ended goalless as both teams failed to convert early chances in the opening 20 minutes.
Matawalle FC eventually broke the deadlock in the second half, securing a 1–0 victory to signal their title defence.
Founded to promote harmony following a period of communal conflicts, the tournament has grown from a local peace initiative into a 32-team competition drawing clubs from Nasarawa South and Nasarawa North Senatorial Zones.
Reflecting on the decade-long journey, tournament founder and retired Assistant Commissioner of Police, ACP (Rtd) Yakubu Agabi Mailafiya, noted how football helped redirect youth energies toward peace and sports excellence.
”Ten years ago, peace eluded us in this area due to crisis. This tournament started and helped us restore peace. As a police officer at the time, I knew young people were often involved in these conflicts. I used this opportunity to show them that they could channel their energy into something positive and stay out of trouble,” Agabi said.
He also highlighted the career opportunities the competition has created for young players.
”Many participants have gone on to play for bigger teams, with some even playing abroad. The state government has sent a seven-member scouting team to select players for their feeder team. If you do your best, the sky is the limit,” he added.
Hon. Ibrahim Peter Akwe, member representing Obi 1 Constituency in the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, commended the turnout and called for improved sports infrastructure in the area.
”Looking at this crowd, there is a clear need for a mini-stadium in this area to support local football. Beyond infrastructure, we need legislation that ensures the state continuously benefits from such talents.
“The organiser has done well to build unity, and this initiative must be sustained,” Akowe said.
Muhammad Dan-Azumi, Chairman of the Organising Committee, noted the competition’s expansion over the years.
”The competition has achieved its primary aim. We started locally within the immediate community, but today it covers almost the entire state. Our hope is to expand across all zones. The founder understands the value of peace and remains committed to the tournament’s success.”Dan-Azumi said.
Speaking on behalf of the traditional institution,the Sangarin Daddare, Abubakar Sa’id commended the ACP Mailafiya for investing in Youth and Sports,a gesture he affirmed has yielded Positive results and threw the commitment of the traditional council to achieve sustainability development in the State and the Country in general.
With financial incentives for teams across all stages and official state scouts monitoring matches, the 10th edition of the Mailafia Unity Cup stands as the tournament’s largest to date.
