By Aderonke Ojo
Abuja, Dec. 19, 2025 (NAN) In a powerful endorsement of grassroots peacebuilding, Alhaji Ismaila Nda, the Seriki (Traditional Head) of Dobi Community, has lauded the Initiative for Better and Brighter Nigeria (IBBN) for a civic engagement programme that strengthened social cohesion in the Gwagwalada Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). His commendation, delivered during a community football match, underscores a vital but often overlooked reality: sustainable unity is often forged in local arenas, not just declared in national halls.
Speaking at the event, Nda emphasized the timeliness and tangible benefits of the initiative. “This programme has actively promoted peace, inclusiveness, and harmony among our residents,” he stated, noting its role in fostering unity “irrespective of religious affiliation.” His remarks went beyond platitudes, offering Dobi Community as a living case study. He revealed that Muslims and Christians in Dobi have a long history of harmonious coexistence, a peace he personally embodies through a principled stance of non-discrimination. “I regularly attend both Muslim and Christian events when invited,” Nda shared, modeling a leadership style based on respect rather than division.
The community leader also provided a subtle lesson in conflict-neutral leadership. Commenting on the football match itself—where Dobi United defeated Paiko United 3–2—he attributed the peaceful conduct of the competition to his own neutral stance. “I was not supporting any of the teams involved,” he noted, suggesting that when leaders rise above partisan interests, even in sport, they create space for fair and peaceful community interaction.
While celebrating this unity, Nda connected it to broader civic needs, appealing to government authorities to address the community’s developmental deficits, particularly the creation of a local council in Dobi. This linkage is critical; it shows that social harmony is not an end in itself but a foundation upon which communities can collectively advocate for their rights and development.
The event served as a strategic platform for IBBN to elaborate on its mission. Bishop Emmanuel Afolabi, the FCT Coordinator, explained that the football match was a deliberate tool for youth engagement and political stimulation. “IBBN was established to ensure that the political class recognises the value and relevance of every citizen,” Afolabi said, highlighting the organization’s focus on inclusive governance that specifically embraces persons with disabilities and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).
Further clarifying the group’s unique position, Prof. Chidii Christian, FCT General Secretary of IBBN, stated, “IBBN is not a political party.” Instead, it functions as a cross-partisan accountability and mobilization platform. “We work to identify credible candidates across party lines capable of delivering good governance,” he explained, stressing that politics should be driven by performance and service, not tribal or religious sentiment. Founded in 2018 with headquarters in Jos, Plateau State, IBBN’s nationwide sensitization efforts have reportedly led to increased political awareness—a key prerequisite for accountable governance.
The gathering, which attracted vibrant youth participation, ultimately reinforced a multi-layered message: that unity is practiced in everyday interactions, that sports can be a potent conduit for civic education, and that informed political participation is the right and responsibility of all citizens. As the players were urged to become ambassadors for positive change, the event in Dobi Community stood as a microcosm of the Nigeria many aspire to build—one community at a time.
(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
STJ/TAK
Edited by Tosin Kolade
