To promote peace and unity among Nigerians through sports, a non-profit organisation, Twenty Bucks Creative is set to organise a football competition in Apapa area of Lagos State in October.
This historic tournament which has never been organised will bring together government officials, civilians, military and other security agencies for the epoch-making competition.
The convener, Charbel Olusanya Jarrouge who spoke with journalists explained that each participating teams will compete and showcase their diverse skills, teamwork and community spirit.
Participating institutions include: Nigerian Army, Police, Nigerian Navy, Artisans, National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Apapa LG staff, peoples’ team, others.
The tournament will take place on October 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 11th & 13th, 2024 respectively at Navy Sport Camp Football Field, Apapa, Lagos.
He emphasised the commitment of his organisation to providing more opportunities for young talents to showcase their skills.
Charbel who is fondly referred to as voice of the youth by teeming admirers and youth-alike, is a Lebanese-Nigerian. He further disclosed that his grandfather is a retired Brigadier-General, George Emdin of the Nigerian Army.
He said: “I’m a great football lover. Football is a tool of unity in Nigeria. So, the purpose of this event is to promote unity. Unity not only for the youth, but something different. Unity for government and civilians.
“I’m not a soldier but I consider my self a family to the force. As I told you, back then when grand pa was serving, where ever he goes we follow him. So, the purpose of this football tournament is to promote unity, especially between the government, armed forces and civilians.
“I was born and brought up in Lagos. I’m a Lagosian. Eti-osa precisely, So, I’m a proud Lagosian and a proud Nigerian. This football competition having all the security agencies and other relevant institutions has never been done before in this manner. So, this is history in the making.
“For this competition, the first price is 1 million Naira; second price is 600,000; and third price is 300,000 Naira.
“There will also be women empowerment. How? During halftime, like any other football game, 15 minutes halftime, we will involve women. The MC will call random women in the field that are watching the game to come and play. Maybe they will juggle the ball or other games. Whoever juggles the highest, wins different items and other gifts.”
Charbel further disclosed that about four to six scouts including an international scout will be on ground at the tournament to discover talents.
ALSO READ: U-17 Women’s World Cup: Olowookere lists Afolabi, Chidi, Effiong, 18 others
