By Tola Gbadamosi

The Commander of the 32 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Akure, Brigadier General Justin Ifeanyi, has highlighted the vital role of unity and collaboration in fostering stronger civil-military relations, emphasising the power of sports as a tool for youth engagement.

He made this known at the maiden edition of a youth football tournament held at Owena Barracks in Akure.

Brigadier General Ifeanyi said the initiative was aimed at building trust between the military and the civilian population, while offering young people meaningful, community-oriented alternatives to criminal activity.

The tournament, dubbed the Big Vic 2025 Football Competition, marked its inaugural edition with Ibile Football Club of Akure emerging as champions.

The event concluded recently at the 32 Brigade Owena Cantonment Mini-Stadium in Akure.

Ibile FC clinched the title following a thrilling 6–5 penalty shootout victory over Royal Goldwin FC.

John Okoye of Ibile FC opened the scoring in the 65th minute, but Babatunde Ilésanmí of Royal Goldwin FC equalised in the 78th minute, pushing the match into a penalty shootout.

The decisive kick came from Isah Godwin, who converted the final spot kick to seal victory for Ibile FC.

The week-long tournament, aimed at identifying and nurturing Nigeria’s future football talents from the grassroots, featured 12 participating teams. It was sponsored by Bayern Leverkusen and Nigerian international football star Victor Boniface, in partnership with the 32 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Akure.

The participating teams included: Ibile FC, Delight FC, FJF A, Sunshine Ballers, Benfad FC, Kejibus FC, Royal Goldwin FC, Brave Eagle FA, Saint FC, Tubaba FC, Shine FC, and Dynamo FC.

The closing ceremony featured the presentation of trophies, medals, and individual awards to outstanding players who exhibited exceptional skill and sportsmanship throughout the tournament.

Brigadier General Ifeanyi personally presented the winner’s trophy to Ibile FC, commending all teams for their discipline, teamwork, and demonstration of fair play.