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2nd Edition: Inter-ward Unity, Peace Football Tournament Ends In Penalty Shootout In Taraba 

By Sani Yarima 

The Jalingo Local Government Inter-Ward Unity and Peace Football Competition ended on Wednesday, 2nd January 2025, in a penalty shootout.

The final match was played between Kachalla Sembe Football Club and Turaki ‘A’ Ward at Afolahan Square in the state capital. 

Kachalla Sembe Football Club triumphed over Turaki ‘A’ Ward in a nail-biting penalty shootout to claim the title in the Cup.

The full-time ended in a goalless draw, resulting in penalties where Kachalla Sembe sealed a 5-4 victory against Turaki ‘A’ Ward.

The decisive moment came from the tournament’s best goalkeeper, whose crucial save during the shootout propelled Kachalla Sembe to victory, sparking celebrations among an enthusiastic crowd.

Addressing attendees, the organizer, Dr Aminu Jauro Hassan who is also the Chairman of the Jalingo Local Government Council, praised the competition for promoting unity and sportsmanship across the council and the state at large.

Jauro, who doubles as the state chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) and also the National Welfare Officer of the association, said the competition will go a long way in uniting the people of the LGA, irrespective of religion, tribes and political differences.

“This competition is a testament to our shared commitment to fostering peace and harmony within Jalingo Council,” Dr Jauro said, emphasizing the role of sports in bridging divides and uniting communities.

Dr Jauro also highlighted the tournament’s impact on reducing youth restiveness and providing a platform for talent discovery.

“This is the second edition, I organised the first edition when I was a Caretaker chairman, and now as an elected chairman. We will maintain the tempo because we are going to form a Jalingo United Football Club God’s willing.” Jauro revealed. 

Football enthusiasts, the Galadiman Muri and District Head of Jalingo, Alhaji Tukur Abba Tukur, the state Commissioner of Education, Hon. Dr. Augustina Godwin in an interview commended the chairman for the initiative. 

They also believed that sustaining the annual event would continue to provide a beacon of hope for Jalingo’s youth, nurturing both talent and a spirit of camaraderie and peace.

Also commenting, the State Chairman of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Sani Sulaiman, lauded the initiative, noting its role in building unity. “This competition has shown how football can bring people together and create lasting bonds,” he said.

However,  other participants who spoke to sports journalists urged other well-meaning individuals across the council and state to emulate Dr. Jauro’s efforts in fostering community development through sports.

Many dignitaries graced the tournament including present and former Commissioners, Members of the State House of Assembly, SAs to Governor Agbu Kefas, Permanent Secretaries, Businessmen, as well as women and youth groups. 

The final match marked the conclusion of weeks of spirited competition among youth teams, which showcased both athletic talent and a commitment to solidarity across the local government area.

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