Delta Ethnic Peace Cup set for Nov 17 to Dec 8

The Centre for Peace, Environmental and Justice CEPEJ has announced the dates for the Delta Ethnic Peace and Unity Cup tournament, running from November 17th to December 8th. The initiative seeks to promote harmony among the six ethnic groups in Delta State through sports.

The tournament will commence with a novelty match on November 17th at the FIFA Goal Project in Ode-Itsekiri Big Warri at noon. Two mixed teams representing the ethnic groups will play the match: Team A, comprising Izon and Itsekiri representatives, and Team B, which includes Urhobo, Isoko, Ndokwa, and Ika representatives.

Comrade Sheriff Molade, President of CEPEJ and sponsor of the event, emphasised the importance of such initiatives in maintaining peace. He noted Delta State’s longstanding peace and the vital role events like this play in fostering unity.

Each ethnic group will hold preparatory build-up games at assigned fields across Delta State ahead of the tournament’s kickoff. The 5th edition of the Delta State Ethnic Peace and Unity Programme continues to make an impact, using sports to encourage peaceful coexistence.

Editorial

The Delta Ethnic Peace and Unity Cup stands out as a remarkable example of how sports can transcend cultural boundaries to promote unity and harmony. In a region as ethnically diverse as Delta State, events like this are instrumental in fostering relationships that transcend tribal affiliations. Sports has the unique ability to unite people, and this tournament underscores its importance as a tool for peacebuilding.

We commend CEPEJ’s initiative to bring together representatives from Delta State’s six ethnic groups. By fostering friendly competition, the event not only encourages physical activity but also strengthens communal bonds. The timing and structure of this event, involving build-up games and a unified kickoff, ensure maximum participation and engagement from across the state.

This initiative sets a benchmark for other regions to emulate, highlighting how grassroots sports can contribute to social harmony. As we follow this tournament, we hope to see it inspire similar efforts across Nigeria, promoting peace, tolerance, and unity nationwide.

Did You Know?

1. The Delta Ethnic Peace and Unity Cup is in its fifth edition, underscoring its consistency in promoting harmony in Delta State.
2. The FIFA Goal Project facility in Ode-Itsekiri is one of the venues selected for fostering football development in Nigeria.
3. Delta State is home to six major ethnic groups, reflecting Nigeria’s cultural diversity within a single state.
4. Sports diplomacy has been recognised globally as an effective means of fostering peace and resolving conflicts in multi-ethnic societies.
5. CEPEJ has been actively involved in environmental and social justice projects, with the Peace and Unity Cup being one of its flagship initiatives.