By Umar Yahaya
On January 1, 2023, the Maikaya Foundation Football Competition culminated in an intense final match between No Shaking FC and Kofa FC at the Toto Central Football Field. Dignitaries from Nasarawa and Abuja graced the event, which kicked off precisely at 2:50 pm, evoking excitement among fans and players.
No Shaking FC made their initial attempt within the first minute, missing the target, but in the 5th minute, Babangida scored a remarkable goal, courtesy of an assist from Salisu GBO. The game saw its share of drama when, in the 16th minute, Kofa FC’s defender Yakubu sustained an injury due to a collision with No Shaking’s striker, leading to his substitution.
Mosquito from No Shaking received a yellow card in the 21st minute, while Kofa FC attempted a shot in the 22nd minute but failed. The referee called a brief two-minute cooling period at the 25th minute due to high temperatures, allowing players to hydrate and rest.
Despite Kofa FC’s persistent attempts to equalize before the first half ended, No Shaking FC’s defence remained resolute, and the referee blew the whistle for halftime precisely at 3:30 pm—the halftime interval showcased cultural dance displays from the Egbura and Nupe cultures to entertain the audience.
The second half witnessed Kofa FC relentlessly striving to breach No Shaking’s defence, with multiple attempts on goal thwarted by the impressive No Shaking goalkeeper, ONANA. Both teams made double substitutions during this half.
Near the game’s end, Kofa FC had an opportunity to equalize but failed to capitalize, resulting in a 1-0 victory for No Shaking FC at 4:20 pm.
After the match, the CEO of the Maikaya Foundation Football Competition delivered a speech, expressing gratitude to attendees and praying for their safe return. Emphasizing unity, peace, and love, he highlighted the competition’s purpose within and beyond Toto Local Council.
Following the speech, awards and gifts were presented:
1. Most Disciplined Team: Opanda Strikers
2. Most Disciplined Player: Rufai Attahiru
3. Most Obedient Team: ZONO FC
4. Best Player: Mustapha Adalci (Kofa FC)
5. Top Goal Scorer: Mustapha Adalci (Kofa FC)
6. Best Goalkeeper: ONANA (No Shaking FC)
7. Medals awarded to prominent individuals.
Various personalities generously supported the foundation financially. Hon Abdulmumin Ari pledged 100,000 Naira and promised a substantial donation of 20 million Naira for Toto Central Football Field’s development and the foundation’s future tournaments. Additionally, he committed to constructing more roads in Toto town.
Hon Tijjani Kayode, a House of Representatives member from Kwara state, contributed $100 to the Maikaya Cup’s Best Player, equivalent to approximately 120,000 Nigerian Naira.
Representing the Nasarawa West Senatorial District, Hon. Aliyu Wadada, through his P.A., donated 300,000 Naira shared among teams and top players.
The Toto Local Government Cashier supported Maikaya Foundation’s media aid (Umar Faruq) with 20,000 Naira, while Hon. Sa’ad donated 50,000 Naira to Opanda Strikers to secure the third position.
Acknowledging everyone’s contributions, a special mention was made to the CEO of Maikaya Foundation for his transparency and commitment.
