In a bid to enhance synergy among security agencies in Plateau State and promote cooperation for effective joint operations, the Plateau State Inter-Security Agency Football Tournament concluded with the finals held at the Pavilion of the 3 Division Nigerian Army, Maxwell Khobe Cantonment, Rukuba Barracks, Jos.
The tournament, organized by the Plateau State Football Association in collaboration with the 3 Division Nigerian Army, saw the Nigerian Police Force, Plateau State Command, face off against the 3 Division Nigerian Army. In a fiercely contested match, the 3 Division Nigerian Army emerged victorious with a narrow 1-0 win, courtesy of a first-half goal by Garba Shuibu, who was named the man of the match.
Speaking at the medal and awards presentation ceremony, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports and Youth Development, Nuhu Garba, who represented the Plateau State Government, lauded the organizers for using sports as a tool to foster unity.
“We sincerely appreciate the Plateau State Football Association for bringing security agencies together through this initiative. This tournament strengthens their bond and provides an opportunity to unwind while continuing their hard work to restore peace in Plateau State. The government and people of Plateau are immensely grateful for their efforts,” he said.
The Plateau State Football Association Chairman, Hon. Dr. Suleiman Yahaya Kwande, emphasized the importance of the tournament in fostering camaraderie among security agencies.
“We recognize the critical role of our security agencies in maintaining peace on the Plateau. This tournament was designed to create a friendly environment that enhances cooperation among them. The synergy we witnessed, even on the tournament’s communication platforms, has been remarkable. We are also thrilled to discover some talented players who might be recommended to professional football leagues,” Kwande stated.
The tournament, featuring all security agencies in the state, aligns with ongoing efforts to secure Plateau State during the harvest season and the Yuletide. Major General A.E. Abubakar, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division Nigerian Army, has consistently advocated for non-kinetic approaches to complement Operation Golden Peace, aimed at ensuring stability within the joint operating environment.
The event concluded with the promise of continued collaboration among security agencies and a shared commitment to maintaining peace across Plateau State.
