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PFA Chairman Takes His Grassroots Developmental Drive To Correctional Center As Plateau State Command Comptroller Of Corrections Cup Commences
The Chairman of Plateau State Football Association, Hon(Dr) Prince Suleiman Yahaya Kwande, has thrown his weight behind the Plateau State Command Comptroller Of Corrections Cup tagged: Football Behind The Walls; Discoverying Talent, Building Peace And Restoring Hope, with some sporting facilities.
Hon. Kwande, who said he’s never imagined that one could experience such excitement, passion and genuine joy within a correctional facility until yesterday at the commencement of the tournament, donated two complete sets of football jerseys and socks to the two correctional(Inmates) football teams, match balls for the tournament, medals and certificates of participation for all participating teams and a giant gold plaited trophy for the eventual Champions.
In his words, Hon. Kwande said: “I never imagined that one could experience such excitement, passion, and genuine joy within a correctional facility until today. The opening match of the “Behind the Wall Peace and Unity Tournament” was nothing short of remarkable. What unfolded was more than a football match; it was a powerful demonstration of the ability of sport to inspire hope, create connection, and remind us of our shared humanity.”
He continues: “I was particularly inspired to discover three exceptionally talented footballers among the inmates, whose natural ability and technical qualities were evident on the pitch. It was a powerful reminder that talent exists everywhere, and sometimes all that is required is an opportunity for it to be seen.”
“I am therefore delighted to have been part of this important initiative and to witness firsthand how football can contribute to rehabilitation, social inclusion, peace-building and the restoration of hope. On behalf of the Plateau State Football Association (PFA), I was honoured to support the tournament with:
• Two complete sets of football jerseys
• Match balls
• Socks
• Medals
• Certificates of participation for all participating teams
• A tournament trophy
These may appear to be simple sporting materials, but their significance goes far beyond the equipment itself. They represent encouragement, recognition, dignity and a message that no one should be forgotten or denied the opportunity to express their God-given talents.”
The Plateau State Football Association Chairman concludes: “The Behind the Wall Peace and Unity Tournament is a commendable initiative, and I commend the organisers, correctional authorities, participating teams, officials, and everyone who contributed to making today possible. Football has the power to cross walls that society sometimes builds. It can unite people, restore confidence, reveal hidden talents and create pathways toward a better future.Talent knows no walls.
Hope knows no barriers.
Football brings us together.”
In the opening ceremony that will see 16 teams battle for the top prize, saw ECWA Goodnews football team beat JCC Inmates football team 3-2.
A very happy, fulfilled and excited PFA Chairman describes the opening match this way: “The atmosphere was extraordinary as ECWA Goodnews FC took on JCC Inmates FC. Both teams displayed impressive footballing ability, determination, discipline, and remarkable individual skills, entertaining the dignitaries, officials, and inmates who witnessed the encounter. One of the most memorable moments came when JCC Inmates FC fought back from a 3–0 deficit to make it 3–2. The excitement and jubilation on the faces of the inmates were truly priceless. In that moment, football became much more than a game—it became a source of joy, hope, belonging, and renewed confidence.”
Here are the list of clubs for the tournament and their respective groups:
Group A:
1.JCC Inmates Team
2.ECWA Goodnews fc
3.Unijos Staff fc
4.Plateau Pyramids
Group B:
1.Plateau United Under-19
2.New Hope Stars
3.BBR fc
4.Catena fc
Group C:
1.Mighty Jets Youth Team
2.Celtic fc
3.CAFA fc
4.SMOBA 07 fc
Group D:
1.Correctional fc
2.LivingStone fc
3.Relentless fc
4.Think Right FA
