The General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN (OPSH), Major General Folusho Oyinlola was among notable dignitaries who attended the grand finale of the Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN Peace and Unity Football Tournament organised by Forward Operating Base (FOB) Sanga, held today 31 May 2025 at Gwantu in Sanga Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State.

Welcoming guests to the event, the Commander FOB Sanga, Major Mohammed Galadima, said the competition brought together people from different chiefdoms who participated in the football tournament. He disclosed that twelve teams from eleven chiefdoms, including the Fulani were drafted for the competition; underscoring the importance of sports in enhancing national integration. He, further thanked the Commander OPSH for his generosity towards the success of the tournament.

Delivering his remarks, the Commander said the tournament has reflected the unwavering commitment of OPSH to strengthening civil-military relations through constructive engagement, which also represents a core element of Operation SAFE HAVEN’s non-kinetic approach to conflict resolution and peace-building. The Commander described sports as a powerful tool for promoting peace, understanding, and collaboration across societal divides.

Major General Oyinlola, urged the people of Sanga to prioritize peace over division, and reassured them that Operation SAFE HAVEN will remain committed to its mandate of safeguarding the lives and property of all law-abiding citizens across its Joint Operations Area. The Commander thanked the Kaduna State Government for creating an enabling environment that allows OPSH carry out its constitutional responsibilities effectively. He called on peace-loving individuals to assist security agencies in addressing security challenges through active involvement in matters relating to peace.

The grand finale of the Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN Peace and Unity Football Tournament featured a match between Wasa FC and Ara Ward. At the end of the entertaining game, Wasa FC defeated Ara Ward by a lone goal and were crowned winners of the tournament.

Highlights of the grand finale includes the final match between Wasa FC and Ara Ward, presentation of medals and cash prizes to first, second and third place teams, cultural display amongst other eye-catching activities.

SAMSON NANTIP ZHAKOM
Major
Media Information Officer
Operation SAFE HAVEN
31 May 2025