By Our Correspondent
The Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, LOC, of the 4th Edition of the Ofugara Peace and Unity Football Tournament, Mr. Edema Fuludu, has commended teams for their early registration, describing it as a strong indication of the tournament’s growing popularity and competitive appeal.
Fuludu, a former international footballer, said the swift response by teams, particularly those made up of former footballers and football stakeholders, demonstrates their passion for the game and commitment to keeping the football fraternity united.
According to him, the early response has set the stage for a fiercely competitive fourth edition, with teams expected to battle for supremacy from the group stage through to the final.
“The growing interest reflects the confidence participants have placed in the Ofugara Peace and Unity Cup as a platform where former players can rekindle old rivalries, showcase their technical and tactical abilities, and strengthen bonds of friendship,” Fuludu stated.
The LOC Chairman reminded teams that all duly completed registration forms must reach the Tournament Secretariat by close of business on September 7, 2026.
He urged teams that have collected forms to return them within the stipulated period, stressing that the organisers will adhere strictly to registration guidelines to ensure proper documentation and player eligibility.
Fuludu also charged teams to uphold discipline, sportsmanship and fair play, and to respect match officials throughout the competition.
He disclosed that the 4th Edition of the Ofugara Peace and Unity Cup will officially kick off on October 1, 2026, with an opening ceremony and curtain-raiser match. The grand finale has been scheduled for November 15, 2026.
Fuludu said the LOC was working round the clock to put in place a robust structure covering match administration, officiating, player accreditation, fixtures, security and other technical requirements.
He expressed confidence that the 2026 edition would raise the bar in terms of organisation, competitiveness and spectacle, adding that the ultimate objective remains to use football as an instrument for peace, unity and community development.
The tournament, which features All Stars teams and former footballers, is proudly sponsored by the Ofugara Give Back Initiative and Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited.
Fuludu appealed to clubs, sponsors, supporters and football enthusiasts to sustain the enthusiasm and join in making the 2026 edition a memorable celebration of football and unity.
