The Joint Task Force, Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), on Sunday, October 19, 2025, held the grand finale of its Peace and Unity Football Competition and formally launched the distribution of writing materials to schools in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The colourful event, which attracted dignitaries from within and outside the state, marked another milestone in the military’s efforts to strengthen civil-military relations through non-kinetic approaches aimed at fostering peace and stability.
In his keynote address, the Special Guest of Honour and General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division Nigerian Army/Commander OPEP, Major General Folusho Oyinlola, said the initiative underscores the military’s commitment to promoting peace and unity through community-based engagements. He described sports and education as powerful instruments for building understanding, collaboration, and lasting harmony among communities.
Major General Oyinlola encouraged residents of Mangu to embrace the virtues of teamwork, tolerance, and discipline promoted by sports, while reaffirming the military’s dedication to protecting law-abiding citizens and maintaining peace in the area. He also urged community members to remain alert and report suspicious activities to security agencies.
Earlier, the Commander Sector 2, Colonel S.O. Fagbemi, explained that the competition brought together youths from eight major ethnic groups in Mangu, providing a platform for friendship and unity beyond ethnic or religious divides. He assured residents of the military’s continued efforts to sustain security across the local government and its environs.
The Chairman of Mangu Local Government Council, Hon. Emmanuel Bala, lauded the GOC and the Nigerian Army for using sports as a unifying instrument, noting that the tournament has helped restore peace and confidence among the people.
Highlights of the event included two matches—the third-place contest between Hausawa Community and Sigdawa Youth, which ended in favour of Hausawa Community, and the final match between Mwaghavul Boys and Pyem Youth FC. Mwaghavul Boys clinched the championship title after a thrilling 8–7 penalty shootout. Winners and other participating teams received medals and cash prizes.
The ceremony also featured the official flag-off of the distribution of writing materials to schools in Mangu, further reinforcing the Army’s commitment to education, youth empowerment, and community development.
