By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu, Lafia
Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has launched the North-Central zonal maiden edition of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) U-17 Unity Grassroots Football Tournament, aimed at promoting regional peace, youth development, and talent discovery.
Performing the ceremonial kick-off in Lafia, Governor Sule, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Dr. Ibrahim Adamu Alhassan, praised the organisers for using football as a tool to enhance unity among diverse nationalities across Northern Nigeria.
He described Nasarawa as a fitting host, noting the administration’s strong support for sports development. “We have the most sports-loving Governor and Deputy Governor in Nigeria. Ensure that you imbibe the spirit of sportsmanship as we all expect to see everyone as a winner,” he said.
Coordinator of the programme, Hon. Sadiq Abubakar Sa’adu (Fakai), said the tournament forms part of activities lined up for ACF’s 25th anniversary, adding that it reflects the Forum’s long-standing mission to unite leaders and youths towards peace, security, and socio-economic advancement.
He explained that the tournament is holding across the three northern zones, with North-West and North-East winners already decided in Kebbi and Bauchi States. The North-Central champions will join others in Kaduna between November 20 and 22 for the grand finale.
Sadiq expressed gratitude to Governor Sule, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Kwanta Yakubu, and Dr. Alhassan for providing an enabling environment for the event.
In the opening fixtures, hosts Nasarawa lost 4-2 on penalties to Kogi after a 1-1 draw, while Plateau edged Benue 5-4 on penalties after a 3-3 draw. Niger came from behind to beat Kwara 4-3, while Nasarawa recovered in their second match to beat FCT Abuja 5-3 on penalties after a 2-2 playoff.
Saturday’s Semi-Final pairings are:
Nasarawa vs Niger at Lafia City Stadium, 8:30am
Plateau vs Kogi at Federal University of Lafia Sports Complex, 10:00am
The three-day tournament will climax on Sunday, November 16, at Lafia City Stadium by 10:00am.