Abuja:The Unveiling and Rebranding Nigeria Initiative (URNI) organized a novelty football match in Abuja on Thursday to promote unity as Nigeria celebrated its 66th independence anniversary.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the match took place at the FIFA Goal project pitch of the Moshood Abiola stadium, featuring City Gate FC against All Stars football club. All Stars FC dominated the game, securing a 4-0 victory after scoring all their goals in the second half.
Vincent Ugochukwu, Chairman of the Advisory Committee of URNI, emphasized the initiative’s goal of fostering national unity through sports. He remarked that football, being the most popular sport worldwide, brings Nigerians together, transcending regional differences.
Abdulkadir Lawal, Convener of URNI, provided a brief history of the initiative, noting that it began in 2007 by a group of patriotic Nigerians aiming to promote the country’s culture and unity. He highlighted that this was the sixth edition of their Independence Day novelty match, underscoring sports as a unifying force in Nigeria.
Nduka Ajeibo, an entrepreneur and patron of All Stars FC, encouraged individuals to contribute to national development. He stated his participation in the match was a way to give back to his community through football.
The event also featured notable figures such as former Flying Eagles midfielder Istafanus Bala and Ortega Deniran, Assistant Coach of Nigeria’s U-23 team.