The inaugural Fwanya Veterans Cup 2024 concluded in Taraba State with a strong appeal for the government to use sports to unite the youth. The tournament, organized by Pastor Luka Joel Maza, brought together football veterans who have played the game for the past fifteen to twenty years to compete.
The event began with the players engaging in jogging and stretching exercises, a crucial routine to ensure their endurance for the full ninety-minute match.
The final match, held at Afolayan Square in Jalingo on Sunday, August 4th, 2024, featured a showdown between the Negatava Veterans and Mayo-Gwai Veterans. Benedict Adolpos Jimlari, the captain of the Mayo-Gwai Veterans, scored the only goal in the first half, securing a 1-0 victory for his team.
Jimlari expressed his excitement after the match, stating, “We deserved this win because we worked hard to reach the final stage. This competition has been exciting for all of us.” Reflecting on his career, Jimlari mentioned, “I retired from active football ten years ago, having been the captain of Road Lions Football Club, and later served as the club’s secretary.”
Read Also: SWAN Commends Taraba Youths Over Peaceful Protest
The tournament sponsor, Pastor Luka Joel Maza, emphasized the event’s aim to bring together veteran players and foster unity. Represented by Mr. Ibro Bala, Maza announced that sixteen teams participated in this edition and promised that the second edition, scheduled for next month, would feature 32 teams from across the state’s local government areas.
“The Fwanya Veterans Cup is the first of its kind in Taraba,” Maza stated. “It’s designed to cherish the memories of the old days, bringing together people irrespective of their religious, cultural, or ethnic backgrounds.”
Maza also revealed plans to collaborate with the Taraba Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) to enhance the visibility of sporting activities in the state.
Sani Sulaiman, SWAN Taraba Chairman praised the initiative, noting, “The tournament is timely and will significantly contribute to uniting the people of the state.”
The event concluded with the presentation of trophies, medals, and cash prizes, marking a successful end to a memorable competition.