Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH) has reaffirmed its
commitment to non-kinetic approaches in addressing insecurity by
leveraging sports to
promote unity, build trust, and strengthen civil-military relations across
Plateau, Bauchi, and Kaduna States.
This was emphasized by the Commander of Operation SAFE
HAVEN and General Officer Commanding 3 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General
E.F. Oyinlola, during the grand finale of the “Commander OPSH Peace and Unity
Football Competition” held on Saturday in Sanga Local Government Area of Kaduna
State.
Participants at the end of the grand finale of the
“Commander OPSH Peace and Unity Football Competition” held on Saturday in Sanga
LGA of Kano State
According to him, “This football tournament embodies a
key aspect of Operation SAFE HAVEN’s non-kinetic approach to conflict
resolution and peacebuilding. It was specifically conceptualized to promote
unity and foster enduring peace across Plateau, Bauchi, and the southern parts
of Kaduna State.”
He described the competition as a proactive,
people-centered strategy aimed at fostering mutual respect among residents of
different ethnic and religious groups.
“Sport is a powerful tool for promoting peace,
cooperation, and understanding across social and cultural divides. By embracing
the values embedded in sports teamwork, discipline, fairness, and mutual
respect we can strengthen our social fabric and contribute to lasting
reconciliation,” the commander added.
In his welcome address, the Commander of FOB Sanga,
Major Mohammed Galadima, said the tournament brought together vibrant youths
from the four chiefdoms of Sanga Local Government.
“This tournament brings together vibrant and energetic
youths from across the four chiefdoms of Sanga,” he stated. “Sports have long
served as a powerful tool for uniting people across cultures, tribes, and
faiths.”
Galadima commended the participating teams, including
one from the Fulani community, and thanked the OPSH Commander for his
unwavering support in maintaining peace. He warned that OPSH would deal
decisively with anyone found aiding or shielding criminals or spreading false
rumours of attacks.
Dignitaries at the event praised the GOC for his
leadership and support, acknowledging the impact of his non-kinetic strategies
in fostering community engagement and regional stability.
Chairman of Sanga Local Government, Anto Usman Yakubu,
noted that the competition helped engage young people constructively and
reinforced peace.
“By bringing them together through sports, we create
bonds that foster peace, unity, and security. The presence of Operation Safe
Haven has made a big difference—raising awareness, deterring crime, and
responding swiftly to threats,” he said.
Also speaking, Barrister Gambo Zangu, representing
Senator Sunday Marshall Katung of Kaduna South Senatorial District, noted that
the cordial relationship between security personnel and communities in Kaduna
South had fostered stability and understanding. He said the tournament aligned
with the military’s non-kinetic approach to security by encouraging peaceful
interactions and unity.
The final match saw Wasa FC defeated Arak Ward by a
lone goal to emerge champions. Medals, trophies, and cash prizes were awarded
to the top three teams and outstanding individuals. The ceremony featured
cultural displays and enthusiastic community participation.
In a related development, Major General Oyinlola
commissioned a newly established Forward Operating Base at Angwan Nunku along
Wamba Road to bolster security presence and response in the area.
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