Igbogo Hosts His Second Football Tournament At Mbawar, Appeals For Peace And Unity

By Cephas Dantsoho, Terfa Naswem 

As a result of his love for sports and social gatherings in fostering peace, love, unity and development, the people of Wuese, Gaav, Mbawar Council Ward in Konshisha Local Government Area of Benue State witnessed an atmosphere of excitement and unity as Engr. Japhet Igbogo successfully organized a community football tournament that brought together youths, sports lovers, and residents from within and around the area. The much-anticipated final match of the tournament was played on Tuesday, 23rd December, 2025 at NKST Secondary School, Wuese, Mbawar, Konshisha marking the climax of weeks of competitive football and community engagement.

The tournament, which kicked off earlier in December, was aimed at promoting grassroots sports development, fostering unity among youths, and encouraging positive social interaction within the community. Teams from different neighborhoods participated, displaying remarkable talent, teamwork, and sportsmanship throughout the competition.

Speaking during the final match, Engr. Japhet Igbogo emphasized the importance of sports as a tool for youth empowerment and peace-building. He noted that football has the power to unite people beyond social, cultural, and economic differences, and described the tournament as part of his commitment to supporting youth development and community growth in Wuese Gaav.

The final match, played on Tuesday, attracted a large crowd of enthusiastic supporters, community leaders, and football fans who turned out to cheer their teams. The game was highly competitive and entertaining, reflecting the high level of preparation and determination shown by the finalists. Security and organization were well coordinated, ensuring a peaceful and enjoyable event for all attendees.

At the end of the match, awards and recognitions were presented to outstanding teams and players for their performances during the tournament. Engr. Igbogo commended all participating teams for their discipline and resilience, while also appreciating the organizing committee, match officials, and supporters for contributing to the success of the event.

Community members expressed gratitude to Engr. Japhet Igbogo for sponsoring and organizing the tournament, describing it as timely and impactful. Many called for the competition to become an annual event, citing its role in discovering local talent, reducing youth restiveness, and strengthening community bonds.

The successful conclusion of the Wuese Gaav football tournament on Tuesday stands as a testament to the positive impact of sports-driven initiatives and highlights Engr. Japhet Igbogo’s dedication to community development through meaningful and inclusive programmes.

Recall that in April, 2025, Igbogo hosted his first Unity Cup for Mbawar which the final match was played on 17th May, 2025 at the football field of NKST Secondary School, Wuese-Gaav, Mbawar, as Young Stars Football Club Wuese defeated Super Stars Alabesa on penalties after the match ended in 2-2 draw.

The tournament played recently was his second as Mbawar defeated Mbatem by 2-0.  Igbogo has a burning desire to organize subsequent tournaments on a wider coverage where all council wards in Konshisha will participate.

Igbogo assured his people that he is determined elicit unending happiness from them through various programmes and initiatives that will be all-inclusive for men, youth, women and children if he will be elected in 2027 to represent Konshisha State Constituency in the Benue State House of Assembly.

Just like Thomas Jefferson, the 3rd President of the United States of America, Igbogo believes that the welfare of the whole is the proper purpose of representative democracy, which takes development to the grassroots and at the same time, creates  communication channels that connect those at the grassroots to the state government in effectively expressing their concerns in times of challenges and pouring out plaudits in times of commendable impact made by the government.