Grassroots Football Tournament in Jos South Fosters Peace and Youth Opportunity

The second edition of the Peace and Unity Football Tournament—organized by the Director of Press and Public Affairs to Plateau State’s Governor, Dr. Gyang Bere—has been hailed as a successful community-driven effort to promote reconciliation, youth engagement, and social cohesion in Vwang District, Jos South.

Fully endorsed by Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, the event brought together community leaders, traditional rulers, government officials, and young people, reinforcing the administration’s focus on peacebuilding and youth development across the state.

At the grand finale, Dr. Bere explained that the tournament was created to unite youths and steer them away from drug abuse and idleness.

“This competition is designed to bring our people together, especially the youths, and channel their energy toward productive ventures,” he said.

He emphasized Governor Mutfwang’s full support for the initiative, noting the governor’s commitment to creating an environment where young people can thrive.

“Meaningful development cannot be achieved without peace,” Dr. Bere added.

By Timescope news Correspondent 

The governor also plans to revive inter-school sports competitions to help discover and nurture talent at the secondary school level.

Dr. Bere highlighted tangible outcomes from the first edition, revealing that several players had secured opportunities to play professionally abroad, including in Egypt and Europe. He expressed gratitude to community leaders, donors, the media, and his wife for their support, and promised an even larger tournament in 2026.

Da Gyang Dudu, President of the Berom Education and Cultural Organisation (BECO), praised the event’s growth into a community fixture with international reach. He called for a standard football stadium in Vwang District and announced that 2026 would feature a youth-focused festival addressing social issues.

Hon. Silas Patrick Dung, Executive Chairman of Jos South Local Government, likened the tournament to “Jos South’s own Africa Cup of Nations” and applauded the unity displayed by participants. He pledged to revive the Jos South Chairman’s Cup in 2026, featuring teams from all five districts.

The local government awarded ₦500,000 to the winners, ₦300,000 to the runners-up, and ₦200,000 for third place.

Turu United emerged champions after defeating Vwang Central in the final.

Stakeholders present noted that the event reflects Governor Mutfwang’s peace agenda and Dr. Bere’s grassroots efforts in action. Dignitaries, including NUJ Plateau State Council Chairman Mrs. Ayuku Pwaspo, were honored with medals for their participation.