The Junior Chamber International (JCI), a dynamic youth organization in Nigeria, has reaffirmed its belief that sports serve as a powerful tool to foster peace, unity, and positive relationships across the country.
They also called on Nigerians to embrace initiatives that promote peaceful coexistence.
JCI International Vice President, Abdullahi Bala Attahiru, disclosed this in Abuja, during the 13th edition of its Baba and Yara Novelty Games, describing the games as a core element of the organization’s mission to build peaceful communities.
The event, held at the hockey pitch of the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, brought together participants from JCI chapters across the country for a day of friendly competition and intergenerational bonding. Under the bright skies, attendees engaged in football, tennis, and other sporting activities, creating an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie.
He said: “This event was established to bring different generations together using sports to promote peace in society. For 13 years, we have seen continuous improvements, and today, we’re celebrating Workers’ Day harmoniously while advancing peace through sports.
“In Nigeria today, there is no connection between the elders and the younger ones when it comes to mentorship. And this is one of the ways we bring everybody together to learn. As you can see, everybody is mixing and sports is a way to foster peace and good relationships in this country.”
Attahiru emphasized the importance of partnerships in expanding the event’s reach, particularly with media, which plays a key role in broadcasting JCI’s message to a broader audience.
In her remarks, chairperson of the 13th Baba and Yara Novelty Games, Muo Immaculata Odiro, expressed satisfaction with the event’s success.
She said: “You can see the large turnout and the variety of games. We have had incredible support from partners like the Senate Press Office, Mayya’s Wellness, Virtusso and Boff & Co, and a dedicated medical team, all of whom have made this event a success.”
Odiro, a trained dietician, expressed pride in the event’s growth over the years. “Each edition builds on the last. Today’s smooth execution and strong turnout reflect that progress,” she noted.
JCI Aso’s 2025 President, Felix Akinyemi, stressed the importance of the event in bridging generational gaps. “This is more than a competition, it’s a platform for reconnecting the old and young, especially in a society where mentorship is often missing.”
Akinyemi also used the opportunity to advocate for greater government investment in sports, citing its power to curb youth unemployment and unrest.
He said, “Sports can uplift communities and take young people off the streets. With proper support, it can unlock careers in therapy, catering, fitness, and beyond, while fostering peace.”
