By Harriet Tornguvan -Abuja
Sabon Gari Local Government Area has emerged champions of the inaugural Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Peace and Unity Cup 2025, following a thrilling 1-0 victory over Zangon Kataf in the final match held in Kaduna State.
The high-stakes encounter, played before an enthusiastic crowd, marked the climax of a grassroots football tournament aimed at fostering peace, unity, and reconciliation among diverse communities in the state.
In a statement by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the tournament was a strategic initiative of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa. It was designed as a non-kinetic approach to peacebuilding, particularly in communities with a history of tension and conflict.
The grand finale attracted notable dignitaries, including the Kaduna State Commissioner for Sports and the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Abubakar Buba, who represented the State Governor. Hon. Buba commended the Armed Forces for leveraging sports to build bridges of unity and promote social cohesion.
Individual and team awards were presented to outstanding players and teams, recognizing their discipline, sportsmanship, and commitment throughout the competition.
The CDS Peace and Unity Cup is expected to become an annual event, with plans underway to expand its reach to more local government areas and states, reinforcing the Armed Forces’ commitment to national unity and grassroots engagement beyond traditional security operations.
