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.
