Mulade Unveils Delta Peace and Unity Cup 2026

Renowned peace advocate and environmental activist, Chief Comrade Mulade Sheriff, PhD, has announced preparations for the Multi-Million Naira Delta Ethnic Peace and Unity Football Tournament 2026, an initiative aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence, youth empowerment and grassroots football development across Delta State.

The tournament, organised by the Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ) in collaboration with the Africa 4 Peace Sports Academy, will bring together teams representing Delta State’s six major ethnic nationalities, Ijaw, Itsekiri, Isoko, Ika, Ndokwa and Urhobo, to strengthen unity through sports.

Originally launched as the Ijaw/Itsekiri Peace and Unity Football Tournament in the aftermath of the Warri crisis, the competition has evolved into the Delta Ethnic Peace and Unity Cup, reflecting its expanded mission of promoting reconciliation and peaceful coexistence among all ethnic groups in the state.

According to the organisers, the initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16) on promoting peace, justice and strong institutions, while providing a platform for conflict prevention, youth engagement and community development.

Speaking on the vision behind the tournament, Mulade said the competition is designed to promote inter-ethnic harmony, discover and nurture grassroots football talents, empower young people through sports and drive socio-economic development across Delta State.

He added that the biennial tournament will commence on November 16 every two years in commemoration of the International Day for Tolerance, a globally recognised day that promotes mutual understanding, respect and peaceful coexistence.

The organisers disclosed that preparations are in top gear for the 2026 edition and called on government agencies, corporate organisations, development partners and other stakeholders to support the initiative, noting that partnerships would further advance sports development, youth empowerment and sustainable peace across the state.

Over the years, the competition has grown beyond football into a respected peace-building platform, fostering reconciliation, strengthening inter-ethnic relationships and creating opportunities for emerging football talents in Delta State.