From Abel Zwanke, Lafia
Sponsor of the Nasarawa North Maikaya Development Foundation Peace and Unity Football Competition, Dr. Muhammed Musa Maikaya, has announced the sponsorship of three referees from Akwanga Zonal Council for a professional refereeing course to upgrade their credentials and boost their careers.
Maikaya made the announcement on Sunday at the grand finale of the second edition of the competition held at Central Primary School, Akwanga, in .
He said the decision was part of his foundation’s broader commitment to strengthening grassroots sports development beyond organising tournaments.
“We are not just interested in hosting competitions. We are committed to building capacity. Three referees from Akwanga Zonal Council will be sponsored to undergo a certified refereeing course to upgrade their CVs and enhance their professional competence,” Maikaya said.
According to him, investing in referees and technical officials would improve the quality of football in the zone and create opportunities for young sports enthusiasts.
“Sports development requires collective effort. By training our referees and discovering talents at the grassroots, we are laying a solid foundation for the future,” he added.
In the keenly contested final played in , Akwanga Selected edged Shooting Stars FC 4–3 on penalties after regulation time ended goalless.
Shooting Stars FC of dominated proceedings and created several scoring chances but failed to convert them. Akwanga Selected, who managed only two shots on target, defended resolutely to force the game into a penalty shootout.
Shuaibu Zubairu converted the decisive spot-kick to hand Akwanga Selected a 4–3 victory and secure their second consecutive title.
With the win, Akwanga Selected received a cash prize of ₦200,000, while Shooting Stars FC went home with ₦150,000 as runners-up. Depot FC Akwanga claimed ₦100,000 for finishing third.
Government, Stakeholders Commend Initiative
The Nasarawa State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, , commended Maikaya for complementing government efforts in youth empowerment through sports.
“Government cannot do it alone. Initiatives like this help engage our youths positively, reduce social vices and promote unity. Dr. Maikaya has demonstrated leadership and commitment to grassroots sports development,” Yakubu said.
Maikaya also appreciated the Governor of Nasarawa State, , for providing what he described as an enabling environment for sporting activities to thrive.
“We thank His Excellency for his continuous support for youth development and sports in the state. The peaceful atmosphere and government backing have made this initiative successful,” he noted.
The grand finale attracted political appointees, former state assembly members, aides to the governor, traditional leaders and hundreds of football fans from across Nasarawa North.
Side attractions included cultural displays, presentation of medals and trophies, and goodwill messages from community leaders who described the Maikaya Development Foundation as a vehicle for peace and empowerment.
A community stakeholder, Benjamin Ewuga, said the competition has become a rallying point for unity in the zone.
“This tournament has brought our people together. Beyond football, it is promoting peace and giving our youths hope. Sponsoring referees for professional training shows that the foundation is thinking long-term,” he said.
Some players also expressed appreciation to the sponsor for sustaining the competition.
“This platform has given many of us exposure. We are grateful and hope it will continue and even expand to other sports,” one of the participants said.
