Football is not just a game played on the pitch. It is a bridge that connects people of different ethnicities together. For lovers of the game, the joy of it knows no bound. They watch at all cost even when it is played at odd hours. Those who can not afford to watch at home opt for viewing centers. That is even the sweetest place to watch it.
The intensity football creates, the emotions and the show of unity among fans are some of the qualities that make the soccer more beautiful. Are you a Manchester United, Chelsea or Arsenal fan? Wait till your team is playing against Real Madrid, Manchester City, Barcelona and so on. That time, a brother who is rival fan becomes the enemy and a total stranger who supports same team becomes blood. It does not matter who one is, the victory of the team must be celebrated by all and the opponent’s fan get to enjoy the friendly banters.
Rampant in the Nigeria media space today, especially the social media, are issues that question the unity of Nigeria. It is either religious controversies or ethnic bigotries. Muslims attack Christians and Southerners fight Northerners.
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The youths are so quick to raise guns and machetes against others due to lack of spirit of oneness. This unnecessary hatred has deeply permeated the system and has deprived the country of its essential development.
However, when it comes to football, the narrative takes on a whole new dimension. The entire Nigerians show spirit of comradeship each time the national teams are on assignment.
According to the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, “our hearts beat as one anytime our teams are playing a football match”. This is definitely not far from the truth.
A poignant example was the 2022 World Cup playoff match between Nigeria and Ghana, known as the ‘Jollof Derby.’ Despite the disappointing outcome for Nigeria, citizens still flocked to the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja to show unwavering support for the Super Eagles.
In that game, there was nothing like Biafra or Hausa, religion were irrelevant. The goal was to witness the Black Stars of Ghana defeated and to see Nigeria at the World Cup. Too bad we didn’t qualify.
Now it’s time for the Super Falcons and it is still the same spirit and same energy. The girls are in Australia to represent Nigeria at the ongoing FIFA Women’s World Cup.
A video recently surfaced online where the girls beautifully sang and danced in both Ibo and Yoruba. The sight was such a beauty to behold. It didn’t look like they came from a country where so many people are clamoring for secession. It didn’t look like they came from a country which harbors so much hate and tribalism. They are from different tribes and religions, but committed to the same goal of serving their father land.
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Their first match was against Canada and it was played at 3:30 am. But the hour didn’t deter Nigerians from supporting. They robbed themselves of the sleep and stood firm in solidarity as they held their hearts in their hands praying fervently for victory. And of course the girls didn’t disappoint as they gave a gallant display. If only this show of love and support can still exist without football.
It is evident that Nigeria faces numerous challenges, primarily stemming from poor leadership. However, at the heart of overcoming these issues lies the unity of its people.
The famous adage, “united we stand, divided we fall,” rings true. If the spirit of camaraderie and support displayed during football events could permeate other aspects of Nigerian society, the country could make significant strides forward.
May the girls succeed in Australia and may God bless Nigeria.
Adama Umar writes for Kano state.
