The fourth edition of the Jasper Fiton Football Tournament officially commenced on Sunday at the Bokkos Mini Stadium, drawing a large crowd of football enthusiasts as organisers reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace, youth engagement and talent discovery through grassroots sports.
The opening ceremony featured the donation of exercise books and cash support to some indigent and physically challenged persons before the tournament got underway.
The opening fixture saw Takai United FC take on Young Stars FC play out a 1-1 draw, with both sides delivering an entertaining contest before a capacity crowd at the Bokkos Mini Stadium. The 2026 tournament will feature 45 teams from across Bokkos Local Government Area, with the grand finale scheduled for October. The eventual champions will receive a substantial cash prize.
Speaking at the event, the sponsor of the tournament, Chief Joseph Maful, popularly known as Jasper Fiton, described football as a powerful tool for fostering unity and peaceful coexistence in communities.
“Bokkos is a community that loves peace. The massive turnout here today shows that our people desire to live together in harmony. Football is the only language that can unite people regardless of their differences,” he said.
Chief Maful explained that the competition was established not only to encourage sporting excellence but also to keep young people positively engaged despite the prevailing security challenges affecting parts of the country.
“We are doing this because we want this tournament to endure, so that even generations yet unborn will know that football can bring people together. Security challenges will not stop us from creating opportunities for our youths to interact, learn and build lasting friendships,” he added.
He also called on stakeholders, community leaders and elites in Bokkos to support initiatives that promote youth development through sports.
“This is a challenge to every stakeholder. When we invest in our young people, we invest in the future of our community,” he said.
As part of the tournament’s humanitarian outreach, Chief Maful distributed ten 40-leaf exercise books and cash gifts of ₦10,000 or more to each of over 100 physically challenged and less privileged individuals.
He explained that the gesture was inspired by biblical teachings on compassion and sharing with those in need.
“We are only custodians of what we have. It is important to support the less privileged and make them feel included in our community,” he said.
Chief Maful further revealed that previous editions of the competition had helped identify talented footballers, some of whom are now pursuing careers in different parts of Nigeria. He expressed optimism that this year’s tournament would create opportunities for more players to advance, including the possibility of international exposure.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Israel Hamidu Dakup, welcomed participants and spectators, noting that the tournament has continued to fulfil its founding vision of uniting young people through football.
“Four years ago, we started this tournament to unite our youth, promote sportsmanship and discover talents. Today, that vision is alive and growing stronger,” Dakup said.
He urged participating teams to compete with discipline, respect and integrity, stressing that the competition is about more than winning trophies.
“This tournament is about character and opportunity. To our coaches, officials, sponsors, partners and volunteers, thank you for your commitment in making this edition bigger and better,” he said.
Dakup noted that this year’s theme, “Keeping Our Youth Engaged, Healthy and Away from Social Vices Through Football,” reflects the organisers’ continued focus on youth empowerment and community development.
He thereafter declared the fourth edition of the Jasper Fiton Football Tournament officially open, wishing all participating teams a successful and sportsmanlike competition.
 
 
 
 
