In a refreshing departure from the usual sounds of gunfire in Zamfara forests, the 1 Brigade Nigerian Army Gusau has opted for a different kind of battle, one fought with volleyballs and teamwork.
As part of its non-kinetic approach to addressing insecurity, the Brigade hosted a three-day inter-agency volleyball tournament aimed at promoting peace, unity, and strengthening civil-military relations among residents and security operatives in the state.
The event, held in Gusau, brought together eight teams drawn from security agencies and civilian communities, including the ZACAS team, Tsafe Volleyball Team, and others.
At the end of the tournament, the Garrison Eagles soared to victory, defeating the 42 PMF team in a thrilling final. Eagle Spikers secured third place after a competitive playoff.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General T. M. Opurum, represented by Lieutenant Colonel Ibrahim Gobir, emphasized the importance of collaboration and mutual trust between the military and civilians.
He noted that the tournament was organized to foster understanding and build synergy in the shared fight against insecurity.
Chairman of the organizing committee, CSP Aliyu Moses, revealed that the tournament was fully sponsored by Brigadier General Opurum, who has shown unwavering support for inter-agency cooperation and grassroots engagement.
The Member of the House of Representatives for Bungudu/Maru Federal Constituency, Honourable Abdulmalik Zubairu Zannan Bungudu, represented by his media aide Aminu Lawal Bungudu, commended the Army for the initiative.
He noted that the tournament not only promoted physical wellness but also provided a platform for civilians and security personnel to interact, exchange ideas, and enhance intelligence sharing.
To encourage the spirit of sportsmanship, the lawmaker donated ₦500,000 to the organizers, awarded ₦100,000 to the winning Garrison Eagles, and ₦50,000 each to the second and third-placed teams. Each participating team also received a volleyball, while standout individual players were given special recognition.
In the end, Garrison Eagles claimed the trophy and ₦100,000 prize, the 42 PMF team went home with ₦60,000 and medals, while Eagle Spikers earned ₦50,000 and medals for their effort.
The tournament not only ended with cheers and medals but left behind stronger bonds of trust me, a crucial weapon in the ongoing quest for peace in Zamfara State.
Reporting by Abdulrazak Kaura