By Rabiu Sanusi, Kano
The Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya has called for stronger collaboration between security agencies and communities, saying unity, peaceful coexistence and mutual understanding remain essential to building a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.
Waiya made the call during a novelty football match organised by the Kano State Government to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, bringing together personnel from various security agencies and members of the Safe Corridor programme at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kofar Mata, Kano.
The Commissioner said the sporting event was designed not only to mark the nation’s independence anniversary but also to create an avenue for security personnel and members of the Safe Corridor programme to interact in a friendly atmosphere, build trust and strengthen relationships beyond their routine official engagements.
According to him, the initiative demonstrates the power of sports as a tool for promoting unity and peaceful coexistence, stressing that citizens and security agencies must continue to work together in the collective interest of society.
Waiya noted that Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary should be viewed as an opportunity to reflect on the country’s journey while renewing commitment to the values of unity, tolerance, cooperation and peaceful coexistence among its diverse population.
He further explained that positive engagement with members of the Safe Corridor programme was important in supporting their social reintegration and encouraging them to become productive members of society, adding that constructive interaction could help strengthen confidence and mutual understanding.
On the football pitch, personnel of different security agencies and members of the Safe Corridor programme temporarily put aside their official roles and competed in the spirit of friendship, teamwork and sportsmanship.
The match attracted cheers from supporters as players displayed their skills and competitive spirit, while the atmosphere at the stadium reflected the wider objective of the event bringing people from different backgrounds together through a shared sporting experience.
The Commissioner said the message from the event was clear: Nigeria’s independence celebration should not only commemorate the past but should also inspire citizens to strengthen the bonds that unite them and contribute to a more peaceful society.
The novelty match therefore served as part of Kano’s Independence Anniversary activities, demonstrating how sports and constructive engagement can provide a platform for dialogue, friendship and peaceful coexistence between security agencies, communities and participants of the Safe Corridor programme.
