By Bolaji Okunola
The Northern Cross River Coalition (NORTHCCO) has unveiled an initiative aimed at fostering unity among the five local government areas of Bekwarra, Ogoja, Obanliku, Obudu, and Yala. This initiative, a mini football league, is set to serve as a catalyst for regional integration, using the universal language of sports to strengthen bonds across communities.
Speaking on the significance of the tournament, in a release issued by NORTHCCO Director of Information and Communication, Mr Linus Obogo, Chairman of the Central Working Committee, Rt. Hon. Legor Idagbo, emphasised that football possesses an extraordinary ability to break barriers and promote harmony. “Football is more than just a game; it is a unifying force that transcends ethnic, political, and social differences. Through this tournament, we are not just playing matches, we are fostering brotherhood, mutual understanding, and a sense of shared destiny among our youths,” he said.
The tournament, which is designed to engage young athletes from the participating LGAs, is expected to instill essential values such as teamwork, discipline, and resilience. Rt. Hon. Idagbo noted that beyond the thrill of competition, the league will serve as a platform for personal and community development. “This is about more than just goals and trophies. It is about teaching our young people the importance of collaboration, perseverance, and sportsmanship, which are crucial for both personal growth and regional progress,” he added.
Beyond the field, the initiative also carries socio-economic implications. The event is anticipated to stimulate local businesses, from food vendors and artisans to transport operators, injecting new life into the region’s economy. “When people gather for such a major sporting event, commerce thrives. This tournament is not just about football—it is about creating economic opportunities, promoting tourism, and empowering local enterprises,” Rt. Hon. Idagbo explained.
He further stressed that at a time when many young people face distractions that could derail their future, this initiative provides them with a constructive and meaningful engagement. “By giving our youth a purpose, a goal—both on and off the pitch—we are steering them away from negative influences and towards a path of ambition and achievement,” he remarked.
NORTHCCO’s leadership remains steadfast in its belief that the mini football league will have a lasting impact, shaping not just individual talents but the collective identity of the region. “This is not just about a single tournament. It is about building a legacy of unity, peace, and progress for generations to come,” Rt. Hon. Idagbo stated passionately.
As the league progresses, excitement continues to build across the five LGAs, with communities rallying behind their teams in an unprecedented display of regional camaraderie. “We are witnessing history in the making. This tournament is a statement of our resilience, our shared aspirations, and our unwavering belief in the power of unity,” the Chairman concluded.
With the whistle set to blow and the games about to commence, NORTHCCO’s mini football league stands as a shining example of how sports can be leveraged as a tool for social cohesion, youth empowerment, and economic revitalization. As the ball rolls, so too does the vision of a stronger, more united Northern Cross River.