By Aderonke Ojo
Stakeholders have called for improved governance, youth inclusion, and community development during a novelty football match organised by the Initiative for Better and Brighter Nigeria (IBBN) to promote youth unity and raise awareness about its mission.
The match, held at the Gwako Mini Stadium, featured Desert Warriors FC of Gwako against Super Tiger FC of Giri, with Super Tiger FC edging a thrilling encounter 4–3.
Speaking at the event, the Chief of Giri Wasse, Godwin Odo, expressed appreciation for the initiative and its timely introduction to his community.
“I am happy about the introduction of this initiative to my community. Coming at this time, it will help Nigeria and move the youth forward,” he said.
He used the opportunity to call on government authorities to address pressing community challenges, including poor electricity supply, lack of clean water, substandard healthcare facilities, and poor waste management.
“Electricity is not constant. Sometimes it is taken for two weeks, yet at the end of the month we still pay the full bill. That hurts.
“ We need constant power to get value for our money. Our hospitals are not up to standard, and residents pay to clear waste by themselves while the environment remains littered. Government intervention is urgently needed,” he added.
Abraham Baike Anebi, a security personnel who attended the event, said the vision of IBBN motivated him to join the initiative.
“I love the programme. I filled the form and read their vision, which encouraged me to join. It promotes peace and good governance, which Nigeria desperately needs. Where there is peace, there is hope and development,” he said.
He noted that youth-focused activities such as football help keep young people engaged positively.
“If the youth have something meaningful to do, it will be better for Nigeria,” he stated.
Also speaking, Dr Isaac Chinagorom, a member of IBBN, described the initiative as a platform for meaningful youth inclusion in governance.
“I joined IBBN because of its ideology, especially what they are doing today—bringing youths together. Youth inclusiveness in governance is one of the most important needs in a society like Nigeria, where democracy is decaying,” he said.
He noted that while youths are often described as “leaders of tomorrow,” many lack pathways into leadership.
“With IBBN, we are becoming part of governance and its processes. This football match has brought people together to understand the initiative. You cannot plant a tree today and expect fruits tomorrow—it takes time, one step at a time,” he explained.
Dr Chinagorom encouraged young people to remain focused and believe in their aspirations.
“The process we are building today will give us the Nigeria of tomorrow—not the decay of yesterday. A better Nigeria is possible.”
Representing the Chief of Gwako, Alhaji Zachari Kaura, Yakubu Idris described Gwako as a peaceful and accommodating community but highlighted security challenges.
“Gwako is one of the most peaceful communities in Gwagwalada Area Council. However, we face serious security challenges, especially at night. The police, civil defence, and joint task force are doing their best, but they are understaffed,” he said.
He commended IBBN for using football as a tool for unity.
“Football brings unity among the people. We are grateful for bringing this initiative to our community, and we will help circulate the pamphlets to encourage more people to join IBBN.”
Meanwhile, Augustine Musa, a player with Desert Warriors FC, said joining the club in January 2026 marked a major step in his football journey.
“I joined this month and learned through their style of play. The team is committed and serious about their careers. The coach motivates us, and we motivate ourselves to win,” he said.
Musa noted that the club is currently participating in tournaments around the Gwagwalada axis and has maintained an impressive winning record.
“I play as number five. My training ends on January 31, after which I hope to break into the first eleven. I want to become a better player and make the team proud,” he added.
The novelty match attracted strong community turnout and reinforced IBBN’s goal of using sports as a platform to promote unity, peace, and civic engagement among Nigerian youths.