The Owan Unity Cup Season 3, themed Oagbeye, got underway yesterday, with the tournament’s convener, Moshood Ozeto, making a strong case for unity, peace, and solidarity among the Owan people.

Ozeto emphasised the importance of harnessing the power of sports, particularly football, to foster harmony, inspire collaboration, and strengthen lasting bonds across communities.

He said the competition was conceived to bring Owan people together beyond politics, geography, and social differences, using football as a unifying force.

“The Owan Unity Cup has, since its inception, remained a rallying point for our people, a reminder that beyond political boundaries and administrative divisions, Owan remains one indivisible family,” he said.

He said that the 2025 edition is coming at a time when the Owan nation needs to close ranks, adding that the tournament was deliberately designed to strengthen bonds and promote a collective spirit among the people.

“This year’s edition comes at a time when Owan needs renewed solidarity. Football provides us with a common ground. It fosters harmony, inspires collaboration, and builds lasting bonds across communities.

“That is why this tournament is more than just football; it is a symbol of our shared destiny,” he said.

He praised Owan sons and daughters in the diaspora for their consistent support, urging them to sustain the momentum by rallying behind the third edition.

“We call for an even stronger collaboration to make this edition not just memorable, but transformative in rallying our people for unity and progress,” he added.