By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
The 2026 Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, FCT Football Tournament will kick off on Tuesday, September 22, with 16 teams drawn from the media, security agencies, professional bodies and other organisations set to battle for honours in Abuja.
Organised by the NUJ FCT Council Sports Committee, the tournament is aimed at fostering friendship, unity and stronger relationships among journalists, government institutions, security agencies, professional associations and the private sector.
The competition is being held under the leadership of NUJ FCT Council Chairman, Grace Ike, whose commitment to the welfare, unity and professional development of journalists has continued to create room for initiatives that bring members together beyond the newsroom.
Her support for the tournament underscores the council’s commitment to using sports as a platform to promote camaraderie, networking and stronger relationships between journalists and other stakeholders in the Federal Capital Territory.
Matches will be played at the Area 3 Football Pitch and Old Parade Ground, Area 10, Garki, Abuja, with the opening fixtures scheduled for Tuesday.
Group A features the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Air Force, NUJ and AIBEN Properties, while Group B comprises the Nigerian Army, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Sports Writers Association of Nigeria and Nigeria Medical Association.
Federal Road Safety Corps, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, National Institute for Sports and Federal High Court are drawn in Group C, while Group D consists of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Customs Service, Nigerian Television Authority and FCT Football Coaches Association.
The group-stage matches will run from Tuesday to Thursday, September 24, before the semi-finals on Friday, September 25.
The third-place match and grand finale are scheduled for Saturday, September 26, with the final set for 2pm, followed by the presentation of trophies and medals.
Chairman of the Organising Committee, Ndubueze Chidoka, said the tournament goes beyond football, describing sport as a powerful tool for promoting peace, unity, friendship and mutual respect.
He urged all participating teams to uphold the principles of fair play and sportsmanship while adhering strictly to the rules guiding the competition.
The tournament is expected to attract government officials, captains of industry, football enthusiasts and other dignitaries as the Grace Ike-led NUJ FCT Council seeks to strengthen bonds across different sectors of society through the beautiful game.
