The trophy was presented to Wasa FC, who defeated Arak Ward by a lone goal to emerge champions.
By CHRISTIANA LOT, Jos
Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) has reaffirmed its commitment to non-kinetic approaches in addressing insecurity by leveraging sports to promote unity, build trust, and strengthen civil-military relations across Plateau, Bauchi, and Kaduna States.
This was emphasized by the Commander of Operation SAFE HAVEN and General Officer Commanding 3 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General E.F. Oyinlola, during the grand finale of the “Commander OPSH Peace and Unity Football Competition” held on Saturday in Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
According to him, “This football tournament embodies a key aspect of Operation SAFE HAVEN’s non-kinetic approach to conflict resolution and peacebuilding. It was specifically conceptualized to promote unity and foster enduring peace across Plateau, Bauchi, and the southern parts of Kaduna State.”
He described the competition as a proactive, people-centered strategy aimed at fostering mutual respect among residents of different ethnic and religious groups.
“Sport is a powerful tool for promoting peace, cooperation, and understanding across social and cultural divides. By embracing the values embedded in sports teamwork, discipline, fairness, and mutual respect we can strengthen our social fabric and contribute to lasting reconciliation,” the commander added.
In his welcome address, the Commander of FOB Sanga, Major Mohammed Galadima, said the tournament brought together vibrant youths from the four chiefdoms of Sanga Local Government.
“This tournament brings together vibrant and energetic youths from across the four chiefdoms of Sanga,” he stated. “Sports have long served as a powerful tool for uniting people across cultures, tribes, and faiths.”
Galadima commended the participating teams, including one from the Fulani community, and thanked the OPSH Commander for his unwavering support in maintaining peace. He warned that OPSH would deal decisively with anyone found aiding or shielding criminals or spreading false rumours of attacks.
Dignitaries at the event praised the GOC for his leadership and support, acknowledging the impact of his non-kinetic strategies in fostering community engagement and regional stability.
Chairman of Sanga Local Government, Anto Usman Yakubu, noted that the competition helped engage young people constructively and reinforced peace.
“By bringing them together through sports, we create bonds that foster peace, unity, and security. The presence of Operation Safe Haven has made a big difference—raising awareness, deterring crime, and responding swiftly to threats,” he said.
Also speaking, Barrister Gambo Zangu, representing Senator Sunday Marshall Katung of Kaduna South Senatorial District, noted that the cordial relationship between security personnel and communities in Kaduna South had fostered stability and understanding. He said the tournament aligned with the military’s non-kinetic approach to security by encouraging peaceful interactions and unity.
The final match saw Wasa FC defeated Arak Ward by a lone goal to emerge champions. Medals, trophies, and cash prizes were awarded to the top three teams and outstanding individuals. The ceremony featured cultural displays and enthusiastic community participation.
In a related development, Major General Oyinlola commissioned a newly established Forward Operating Base at Angwan Nunku along Wamba Road to bolster security presence and response in the area.
