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Football Tournament Throws Opened The Ever Interesting And Colourful Nzem Berom Cultural Festival As Calls Are Made For Youth Engagement In Nation Building:
The 2026 edition of the Nzem Berom Nation cultural festival hit the ground running this year with one of the most powerful unifying factor, Football, as the Bukuru Mini Stadium was filled to capacity on Sunday for a football match with a strong call for youth participation in community development and nation building, as traditional leaders emphasised the importance of sports in harnessing the potential of young people in Berom land.
The football tournament, according to the organisers, is part of activities to mark the Nzem Berom 2026, themed “ *The Berom Youth and Nation Building: Reclaiming, Rebuilding and Harnessing Opportunities* .”
The event aims to promote unity, talents discovery, and youth empowerment through sports, got the ball rolling with an exciting opening match between Du District and Gyel District, with Du District securing a convincing 2–0 victory over their opponents. Goals from Jang Kim and Hwere Abner Danjuma ensured Du District started the tournament on a winning note, thrilling spectators who turned out to witness the kickoff.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba, who was represented by the Gwom Rwei Haipang, HRH Paul Tadi Tok, highlighted the critical role of youths in the future of Berom land.
According to Gwom Rwei, the youth remain the major focus of the community, noting that they possess enormous prospects and opportunities that must be nurtured for the growth of society.
He described football as a sport with a global outlook, stressing that Berom land must utilise the platform to showcase its abundant talents to the world.
The royal father therefore urged participating teams and supporters to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship throughout the tournament.
He also offered prayers for a successful and injury-free competition, while commending the organisers for their dedication and commitment to youth development through sports.
The representative of the Gbong Gwom Jos, thereafter officially declared the Nzem Berom 2026 Football Tournament open, setting the stage for more exciting matches among participating districts.
The festival, which also include other sports like marathon race and golf, is expected to continue with more matches at the Riyom and Barkin Ladi centres, as teams compete for honours while celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Berom people.
Credit: Nathaniel Mobolade
