By Jessica John Bakari
The fourth edition of the Bishop Stephen Dami Mamza Football Tournament has kicked off at Saint Peter’s Minor Seminary, Yola, with eight deaneries under the Catholic Diocese of Yola set to compete.
Declaring the tournament open, the Catholic Bishop of Yola Diocese, Most Reverend Dr. Stephen Dami Mamza, said the competition is designed to engage Catholic youths and provide a platform for discovering and nurturing their talents.
The event, organised by the Catholic Laity Council of Nigeria, Yola Diocese, carries a strong spiritual focus this year. Bishop Mamza disclosed that the tournament began with a two-day retreat aimed at preparing the youths spiritually ahead of the matches.
He explained that the initiative seeks to bring young people together to foster unity, build relationships, and collaborate in proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
The Bishop further revealed that officials would scout for talented players during the tournament, with plans to support outstanding participants in advancing their football careers.
He urged participants to approach the competition in the spirit of sportsmanship, stressing that it should not be seen as a do-or-die affair, but as an avenue to strengthen unity among the youths.
“As Catholic youths, part of your mission is to proclaim the Gospel of Christ Jesus,” he said, charging the players to remain disciplined and conduct themselves properly throughout the tournament.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of the Laity Council, Yola Diocese, Mr. James Ijai, emphasised the importance of discipline and mutual respect among participants. He also urged players to see the competition as a unifying platform rather than a fierce contest.
Mr. Ijai commended the Bishop and the Church for their support in organising the tournament and expressed optimism that its objectives would be achieved.
The eight deaneries participating in the competition are Mapeo, Ganye, Numan, Vunokilang, Jimeta, Gombi, Mayo-Belwa and Yola.
A highlight of the opening ceremony was a one-minute silence observed in honour of Emmanuel Ellias, a youth from Mapeo Deanery who recently passed away.