Maikalangu, Makanjuola back grassroots football development at Game Changer Unity Cup

Maikalangu, Makanjuola back grassroots football development at Game Changer Unity Cup

The Chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council, AMAC, Hon. Christopher Zakka Maikalangu, has been commended for supporting grassroots football development and youth empowerment through the inaugural Game Changer Unity Cup in Abuja.

The tournament, which featured 16 teams, was held at the Stadium of Light within Covenant Garden Estate, Apo-Dutse, and ran from June 5 to August 9, 2026.

Mgbuka FC of Apo emerged champions after defeating Tyre Plaza FC 1-0 in the final, while NATA FC secured third place.

Speaking after the final, Chairman of the Abuja Automobile Spare Parts Dealers Association, Onyeka Eze, described the tournament as a major platform for bringing the people of Apo together through football.

Eze said the success of the competition had made him forget the financial sacrifices involved, stressing that the unity and happiness generated by the tournament were more important.

“This football is to unite Apo. We have been battling in this tournament for two months plus, but we made it. It has come to the end today and everybody is happy. The whole Apo is happy.”»

He also thanked residents, supporters and everyone who contributed to the success of the competition through their presence, prayers and financial support.

Also speaking, Makanjuola of Water FC, a key figure behind the tournament, described the Game Changer Unity Cup as an important initiative for the development of grassroots football in Abuja.

Makanjuola appreciated the media and other stakeholders for their support, while stressing the need for sustained investment in grassroots football.

“Game Changer is a person that really loves grassroots football. He believes I have a grassroots structure that can take this competition to the next level.”

He said the success of the tournament was a collective achievement, noting that the organisers could not have achieved the feat without the support of the media, community leaders, players and residents.

Makanjuola also commended AMAC Chairman Christopher Zakka Maikalangu for his support and expressed optimism that the initiative would grow beyond Apo and reach other communities across Abuja.

“We will not forget what we are trying to do in Nigeria about grassroots development. You can see a lot of things that happen. We have thousands of crowds and they are happy.”

He added that the tournament was designed not only to promote football but also to provide a platform for youth empowerment and community development.

The inaugural Game Changer Unity Cup ended on a high note, with trophies and medals presented to the participating teams and outstanding players.