Universally, sport is celebrated as a unifying force for peace, transcending cultural and personal differences.
Recently, a staff member of AUN's Safety and Security department, Mr. Achesom Muzong, initiated a Peace through Sports tournament using football to engage diverse communities in Adamawa State on Sunday, October 29, 2023. The mission was centered on the theme "Peace Tournament Cup" and was an entertaining initiative to promote peace in the state.
On Sunday, October 29, 2023, the Achesom Peace Initiative organized a Peace Tournament Cup, which brought together youths of Numan, Lamude, Demsa, Guyuk, and Shelleng local governments in Adamawa State to compete in the name of peace and unity. The tournament further promotes peace initiatives within the communities by illustrating how individuals can unite, set aside their differences, and strive for more harmonious coexistence, even on a small scale.
The tournament was held at the Makwada Stadium in Numan, which was packed to capacity with athletes, youths, and other community members.
During the tournament's inauguration, Achesom Muzong, Founder and Chief Organizer of the Achesom Peace Initiative, stated that the purpose of the peace tournament is to highlight the capacity of sports to foster inter-community understanding. "This tournament will bring Christians and Muslims together; our goal is to assist the youth of these communities in advancing their careers through this event."
Mr. Muzong stated that the initiative's success has motivated him to establish the peace tournament as a yearly occasion, with the primary objectives of fostering unity and peace among communities and assisting in the resolution of local concerns.
President DeWayne Frazier lauded the organizers' efforts in ensuring the success of the tournament's opening ceremony.
In his address, President Frazier stated, "Football is one of those sports that unites people." Football unites people, the President said, not only because it provides the opportunity to participate in a game but also to cheer on fellow local players and young children, elevating their status to that of heroes.
"Football provides an opportunity to discuss various matters and offers a unique context for doing so; it is not always desirable to be in a place where serious issues are discussed. Through football, one can forge friendships and come to realize that by working together, one can develop love and friendship". President Frazier emphasized further that the tournament's impact on the future will be significant. He appreciated the communities for their participation.
In addition to welcoming all guests, the Secretary of the Numan Local Government Council, Mr. David B. Aframu, expressed gratitude to the organizers for their initiative and vowed his support for the event's success.
The ceremony featured a match between Numan and Lamude LGs and a scintillating performance of the Purato Traditional Dancers Imburo Numan, which further highlighted the cultural diversity and inclusivity of the tournament.
Report and photographs by Chiedozie Joseph