The Nigeria Union of Journalists ( NUJ ) FCT Correspondents’ Chapel,will in month of July ,2024 record another milestone with the hosting of 2nd Edition of NUJ Football Tournament tagged “ Football for Friendship and Peace “
The 3- Day tournament is aimed at strengthening the relationships between the media and participating organizations.
The Chairman NUJ FCT Correspondents’ chapel, Mr. Jide Oyekunle disclosed this at a press conference and unveiling of NUJ Football Tournament Brand Ambassador held at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja on Tuesday 18th June,2024.
Jide Oyekunle said”We are using football to promote and shape the synergy with these organizations particularly the security agencies whom our members always interface with on a daily basis.
“Football does not have language. Football is an integral activity that unites the people and has the power to change the world irrespective of the religion, ethnic and political background.
“Football makes people forget their differences because it is a unifying factor. It heals the wounds and bonds people together.
“It is one of the antidotes for physical fitness and mental health and alertness which we all need particularly in face of the present economic reality and hardship.
“As one of the improvements compared to the maiden edition in 2023 when eight ( 8 ) teams participated, It is my pleasure to inform you that fourteen ( 14 ) teams drawn from the security agencies , government organizations and professional bodies will be participating in this 2nd Edition of the tournament.
“These includes ; the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited ( NNPCL ), Nigerian Police Force , Nigerian Customs Service ( NCS ), Nigerian Immigration Services ( NIS ), Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Federal High Court, Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC ), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), AIBEN Group, Sport Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), National Orientation Agency ( NOA) and the mother of them all Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
“The tournament is ‘knockout’ that means when you are defeated you are out of the game and it will be held on July 11th, 12th while the grand finale will be held on Saturday July 13th at the Area 10 football field by Old Parade Ground Garki Abuja when the cash prize, trophy and medals will be presented to the winning team and second runner up”.
Oyekunle added that there will be a novelty match as a teaser to the final match between the National Association of Women Journalists ( NAWOJ ) and Former Chairmen of NUJ FCT Council and Veterans ( elders).
He said there will be a raffle tickets for the first 50 people to arrive the venue of the tournament with valuable prizes to be won.
“For us at the NUJ we are doing everything possible to ensure that we give our women the needed voice, space and chance and end all forms of stereotyping, negative gender identities and bias against women. Because what a man can do, a woman can do it better.
“This tournament will attract football enthusiasts, administrators, government officials, captains of industries, members of the Diplomatic Corps, media executives and other dignitaries from all walks of life Oyekunle stated.
The FCT NUJ Correspondents’ chapel Chairman therefore called on the participating organizations to exhibit true spirit of sportsmanship during and after the competition and adhere strictly to the rules of engagement and ensure fair play by going for the ball but not the leg.
He said “I urge you to reflect on the theme of the tournament and ensure that the aim is not defeated because the Olympic game is not to win but to participate.
“Though the ground rules and regulations guiding the conduct of this tournament will be formally read and presented to the team leaders and representatives today.
“Our aim is to sustain the tournament and we hereby use this medium to call on sport friendly organizations and individuals to partner with us and be part of the success story and sponsor this event.
“It will interest you to know that there will be a routine medical check up for all the players before the commencement of the game and this is courtesy of TI’ Bilon Healthcare Foundation.
“Though the team managers and coaches may also be subjected to this exercise because of the tension and anxiety on the field when the action starts……..
“However the NUJ team ( TEAM CORRESPONDENTS ) will not only lift the trophy but teach other participating teams the rudiments, principles and fundamentals of soccer. I think our TEAM deserves a round of applause in advance”.
The Chairman at occassion unveiled the Football Brand Ambassador. A football legend, icon, hero and model in person of Mr. Chikelue Iloenyosi, ( AKA THE GENERAL the former Super Eagles defender and Chairman of Anambra State Football Association.
He added “Appreciative words are the most powerful force of goodwill . I want to use this medium to express our profound gratitude and appreciation to our Ambassador for the honour and privilege you have accorded us. We are not taking this kind gesture for granted but with gratitude.
“I will not end this speech without acknowledging the invaluable contributions of the Managing Director of AIBEN GROUP, Mr. Andy Elerewe as major partner of this tournament and for deeming it fit to identify with us on this auspicious event.
“Our appreciation also goes to the Management of Transcorp Hilton, Nigerian National Petroleum Company ( NNPC ), Ti Bilon Construction, China General Chambers of Commerce in Nigeria, Julius Berger Nigeria, Nigerian Red Cross Society, Federal Capital Territory Administration ( FCTA ), FCT Football Association, Federal High Court, Liberty TV, Police Radio and Thenewsguru.
“Also to the Chairman FCT Council, tournament committee members
who have been supportive and working tirelessly behind the scene for the success of this event . I say thank you.
“To all my leaders in the profession here present I want to say a big thank you for finding time to attend this event despite your tight schedule.
“To the engine room, members of the executives FCT Correspondents Chapel, thank you for being the pillar and beacon of support and for making this event a success”.
