…..says UN is far more than a game, it unites people across borders –
National Information Officer, and Officer-in-Charge of the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) in Nigeria, Oluseyi Soremekun, does the ceremonial kick-off of the match.
The National Information Officer, and Officer-in-Charge of the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) in Nigeria, Oluseyi Soremekun, has emphasised that football is far more than a game.
According to him,“It is a universal language, one that unites people across borders, cultures, and communities.”
He made the statement at the observance of the World Football Day on 25 May 2026, at Astro Turf in Wuse Abuja.
Addressing the young people at the event featuring a football match, Soremekun remarked that football inspired teamwork, resilience, and a shared sense of purpose, values that resonate deeply with the mission of the United Nations.
“This event, combining running and football, symbolises both movement and momentum. Movement, in the physical sense of promoting health and well-being; and momentum, in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.” He explained.
Soremekun said further that the World Football Day was an acknowledgement of the global reach of football and its impact on peace and diplomacy, and recognising that football creates space for cooperation on issues ranging from climate action, health and education to inclusion and gender equality.
The Officer-in-Charge acknowledged that through initiatives such as the UN Football for the Goals (FFTG), sport has become a powerful platform to promote peace, inclusion, equality, and opportunity for all; and quoted the UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed: “The United Nations recognises the powerful voice football carries in the global community and the role it can play in raising awareness of the SDGs through the popularity of the game.”
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Soremekun also disclosed that the UN had over the weekend officially unveiled 16 football greats as FFTG Champions, including Nigeria’s Daniel ‘The Bull’ Amokachi.
Football For The Goals, according to him, is a United Nations initiative that engages with football stakeholders and major actors to leverage the outreach power of football and the sport’s global footprint in advancing sustainability, equality, human rights and climate action by promoting actions and practices that support achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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Soremekun called on the participants to “remember that every pass, every stride, and every goal reflect our collective commitment to building a more inclusive, healthy, and peaceful world. Whether on the field or in our daily work, we each have a role to play in advancing these ideals.”
“Let today’s event strengthen our bonds, energise our spirits, and reaffirm our shared commitment to the Goals, leaving no one behind.” He added.
The World Football Day event was organised by UNIC in collaboration with The Outsiders Hash House Harriers (OH3).
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