Rita Enemuru, Reporting
DELTA State is gearing up for another landmark peace-building initiative as renowned development advocate, Chief Comrade Mulade Sheriff PhD, announces the readiness of the Multi-Million Naira Delta Ethnic Peace and Unity Football Tournament 2026.
The competition, organised by the Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ) in partnership with the Africa 4 Peace Sports Academy, is designed to foster unity and strengthen peaceful coexistence among the state’s diverse ethnic nationalities through the universal language of sport.
Originally established in the wake of the Warri crisis as the Ijaw/Itsekiri Peace and Unity Football Tournament, the initiative was a strategic response to ethnic tensions, using football as a reconciliation tool between the Ijaw and Itsekiri communities. Over the years, its success has seen the tournament expanded and rebranded to the Delta Ethnic Peace and Unity Cup, now featuring six major ethnic groups: Ijaw, Itsekiri, Isoko, Ika, Ndokwa, and Urhobo.
The expansion reflects a broader vision to consolidate peace across the state and build lasting relationships among all ethnic nationalities.
According to Chief Mulade Sheriff, the biennial tournament is scheduled to commence on 16 November 2026, coinciding with the International Day for Tolerance—a date globally recognised for promoting mutual understanding, respect, and peaceful coexistence.
“The tournament aims to promote peaceful coexistence, discover and nurture grassroots football talent, encourage youth empowerment through sports, and use football as a vehicle for socio-economic development and social inclusion,” Sheriff explained.
The organisers have confirmed that preparations are in full swing, with teams expected to represent the six ethnic nationalities across Delta State. The competition is anticipated to draw football enthusiasts, community leaders, government officials, corporate bodies, and development partners committed to peacebuilding and youth development.
The initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16), which focuses on promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions.
CEPEJ and the Africa 4 Peace Sports Academy have called on corporate organisations, government agencies, and well-meaning individuals to partner with the initiative, noting that such collaboration would enhance sports development, youth empowerment, and community engagement.
Observers have noted that the Delta Ethnic Peace and Unity Cup has evolved far beyond a football competition, now standing as a powerful platform for reconciliation, inter-ethnic relationship-building, talent discovery, and sustainable development in Delta State.
