The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, has officially launched its 2026 annual Inter-Agency Football Tournament in Abuja. The event aims to foster friendly relations among journalists, security agencies, government organisations, private sector, and professional bodies. The tournament, set to begin on September 22, 2026, will feature 16 teams competing at the Area 3 football pitch and Old Parade Ground, Area 10, Garki, Abuja.
A total of 16 teams from various organisations will participate in the tournament, including the NUJ, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Nigerian Air Force (NAF), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and Federal High Court (FHC). Other participating teams are Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), AIBEN Properties, Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), FCT Football Coaches Association, NAWOJ, Women Football All Stars Association, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigerian Army, and National Institute for Sports.
The grand finale and presentation of trophies and medals are scheduled for September 26, 2026, at 11 a.m. The Chairman of the Sports Committee and Organising Committee, Ndubueze Chidoka, emphasized that sports serve as a unifying force, capable of transcending language, religion, ethnic, and political affiliations. He encouraged participants to exhibit sportsmanship and fair play, adhering strictly to the competition's rules.
Chidoka noted that the tournament will attract dignitaries, captains of industry, government officials, and football enthusiasts. He highlighted that the event is a contribution to promoting peace and unity in Nigeria. The Chairman of NUJ FCT Council also spoke at the event, describing the competition as more than just a sporting event, but an initiative to foster friendship, teamwork, and healthy competition.
The Chairman of NUJ FCT Council emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for relaxation, fitness, and relationship-building outside the newsroom, especially for journalists who often work under pressure to meet deadlines. He commended participating agencies for honouring the invitation and thanked sponsors and members of the organising committee for their support.
The NUJ FCT Council plans to make the tournament an annual platform to deepen engagement with government agencies and corporate organisations while promoting the welfare of journalists. The Council also urged the media to give the competition visibility beyond scores and results, by highlighting stories of teamwork, friendship, and fair play.
The draws for the tournament were conducted by the Head of Competition at the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). With the tournament set to kick off on September 22, 2026, participants and spectators alike are eagerly anticipating the event, which promises to promote unity, teamwork, and healthy competition among the participating teams.
Key points
- The 2026 NUJ Inter-Agency Football Tournament aims to strengthen friendly relations among journalists, security agencies, government organisations, private sector, and professional bodies.
- A total of 16 teams will participate in the tournament, competing at the Area 3 football pitch and Old Parade Ground, Abuja.
- The grand finale and presentation of trophies and medals are scheduled for September 26, 2026, at 11 a.m.
