By Lawrence Zongo/The Nigeria Times
In a ceremony that brought together leaders from 12 Local Church Councils (LCCs), coordinators, and the ECWA Miango District Church Council (DCC) Executive, Hon. (Dr.) Suleiman Yahaya Kwande, a two-term representative of Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency, received a historic award recognizing his contributions to grassroots football in Plateau State. The event, held at the ECWA Miango DCC hall, highlighted the impact of community-focused sports initiatives on youth engagement and local development.
“I am deeply humbled and sincerely grateful to the ECWA Miango District Church Council for this rare and historic honour,” Kwande said as he received the award, noting the significance of being recognized by a Christian organization despite being a Muslim. “This award represents unity, respect, and the ability of sport to bring people together.”
The award, presented during the ECWA Miango DCC Annual Council Meeting, acknowledged Kwande’s central role in establishing the ECWA Miango Church Council Chairman’s Football Competition. The tournament has since influenced similar events in other organizations, including COCIN and the Boys’ Brigade, providing a platform for young players to showcase their talent and fostering engagement across rural communities.
Kwande shared his reflections on the broader lessons of football and community participation. “Football is a sport that can lift spirits, encourage teamwork, and bring people together,” he explained. “Through these tournaments, young people learn discipline, resilience, and the value of collaboration.” He also recounted a memorable experience during a national team match, highlighting the role of perseverance and hope in sports and life.
Reverend Yakubu Nggwe, Senior Pastor of ECWA and Chairman of Miango DCC, emphasized the purpose of the recognition. “We present this award to Hon. Suleiman Yahaya Kwande in appreciation of his contributions toward actualizing the ECWA Miango Church Council Chairman’s Football Competition. His dedication, commitment, and passion have strengthened youth engagement and community cohesion in rural Plateau State.”
Kwande’s recognition also drew attention due to his faith background. As a Muslim lawmaker receiving an honour from a Christian organization, his award is seen as a symbol of cross-faith collaboration and inclusive community development. Over his two terms in the House of Representatives, Kwande has implemented programs benefiting both Christian and Muslim communities, focusing on youth empowerment, education, and healthcare initiatives that transcend religious and ethnic boundaries.
“This award is like a key to heaven,” Kwande added, noting the personal significance for his family. “My mother, a Christian, will be very proud to see this recognition, and I intend to give her the award as a tribute to the values she instilled in me—service to humanity is service to God.”
Community members at the event expressed their appreciation for Kwande’s support of youth programs. Many highlighted how his involvement in football tournaments had encouraged discipline, nurtured talent, and strengthened bonds within local communities.
“The ECWA Miango DCC wanted to show our appreciation because Hon. Kwande embodies the spirit of service that unites communities,” Reverend Nggwe said. “His contributions go beyond sport—they demonstrate how leadership and dedication can positively influence diverse groups.”
The ceremony concluded with rounds of applause and conversations among participants, illustrating the strong connection between sports, community development, and inclusive leadership. Kwande’s story reflects the potential for political figures to use their positions to foster cohesion and provide opportunities for young people, demonstrating that meaningful service is measured by the impact on communities rather than personal accolades.
As The Nigeria Times reported from the event, the recognition of Hon. Suleiman Yahaya Kwande highlights the growing influence of grassroots sports programs in Plateau State. It underscores the importance of initiatives that bridge divides, encourage youth participation, and reinforce community values, showing that football, public service, and cross-faith collaboration can coexist effectively in creating opportunities and promoting unity.
The ECWA Miango Church Council Chairman’s Football Competition continues to serve as a model for similar initiatives across the state, reflecting the enduring impact of Kwande’s contributions and the potential for sports to strengthen community bonds while providing a platform for young talent.
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