Gwagwalada: The Seriki of Dobi Community, Alhaji Ismaila Nda, has praised the Initiative for Better and Brighter Nigeria (IBBN) for organizing a civic engagement program aimed at fostering unity in the community. Nda expressed his appreciation at a grassroots football match held by IBBN in Dobi Community, Gwagwalada Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), where he highlighted the program’s contributions to peace and inclusiveness among residents.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Nda emphasized the importance of the initiative in fostering unity among community members, irrespective of their religious affiliations. He noted that Dobi Community has enjoyed harmonious living between Muslims and Christians, and his participation in both Muslim and Christian events underscored his commitment to non-discrimination on religious grounds.
The community leader remarked on the joy the event brought to Dobi, especially with the Christmas season approaching, and credited the peaceful nature of the footb
all match to his neutral stance, as he did not support any of the participating teams. He also called on government authorities to address the developmental needs of the community, particularly the creation of a local council in Dobi.
NAN reports that in the football match, Dobi United triumphed over Paiko United with a 3-2 victory. During the event, the FCT Coordinator of IBBN, Bishop Emmanuel Afolabi, advocated for inclusive governance and increased youth participation in Nigeria’s political process. Afolabi mentioned that IBBN aims to highlight the value of every citizen, including persons with disabilities, and promotes equal treatment and inclusion.
Prof. Chidii Christian, the FCT General Secretary of IBBN, also spoke at the event, explaining that the organization had intensified grassroots mobilization in the FCT through sports and community engagement. He clarified that IBBN is not a political party but works to identify credible candidates across party lines who can deliver good governance, emphasiz
ing that leadership should be based on performance and service rather than sentiment.
NAN points out that IBBN was established in 2018 with headquarters in Jos, Plateau, focusing on nationwide sensitization on good governance. Christian highlighted one of the organization’s major achievements as the increased political awareness among citizens and assured participating footballers of IBBN’s continued support, urging them to act as ambassadors of positive change in their communities.