By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, will on Tuesday, September 22, commence its 2026 Football Tournament featuring 17 teams drawn from media organizations, security agencies, government institutions and professional bodies.
Chairman of the Tournament Organizing Committee, Ndubueze Chidoka, announced this on Monday during a press conference and draw ceremony in Abuja.
He said the tournament was designed to strengthen relationships among journalists, security agencies, government organizations, the private sector and professional bodies through sports.
The participating teams include the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Nigerian Air Force (NAF), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Federal High Court, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigerian Customs Service, Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), AIBEN Properties, Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), FCT Football Coaches Association, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Women Football All Stars Association of Nigeria, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigerian Army and National Institute for Sports.
The matches will be played at the Area 3 Football Pitch and Old Parade Ground, Area 10, Garki, Abuja.
Chidoka said the tournament would climax with the grand finale and presentation of trophies and medals to the winners on Saturday, September 26, at 11 a.m.
He said the event was expected to attract government officials, captains of industry, football enthusiasts and other dignitaries.
According to him, sports have the capacity to unite people irrespective of religious, ethnic, political or professional differences.
“Sport is an integral activity that unites the people and has the power to change the world for the better irrespective of religion, ethnic and political affiliations,” he said.
Chidoka described the tournament as the NUJ FCT Council’s contribution to promoting peace, unity, friendship and mutual understanding in the country.
He urged all participating teams to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship and fair play throughout the competition, while adhering strictly to the rules and regulations guiding the tournament.
He also appreciated partners and stakeholders for their contributions towards the successful organization of the competition and wished all participants a successful tournament.
