Ganye’s Vice Chairperson, Sirente Jelani, Ignites Youth Passion for Peace and Development Through Football
By Our Correspondent, Ganye
The historic town of Ganye, often hailed as the cradle of hospitality in Adamawa South, came alive on Sunday, October 12, 2025, as the much-anticipated Smart Charity Cup 2025 officially kicked off in a colourful and electrifying ceremony.
The event, hosted at the Water Board Field behind First Bank Plc, Ganye, drew football enthusiasts, community leaders, youth groups, and dignitaries from far and wide, marking the beginning of what promises to be one of the most thrilling grassroots tournaments in the region.
A Visionary Leader Behind the Initiative
The Smart Charity Cup is proudly sponsored by the Vice Chairperson of Ganye Local Government, Miss Sirente Jelani (popularly known as Nyawi Sugu) — a young, vibrant, and visionary leader whose name has become synonymous with progress and youth empowerment.
Although Miss Jelani was unavoidably absent at the opening ceremony, she was ably represented by the Secretary of Ganye LGA, Malam Shehu Audi, who officially declared the tournament open amidst cheers and excitement from the crowd.
In his remarks, Malam Audi described the competition as a reflection of Miss Jelani’s commitment to fostering peace, unity, and social development through sports.
> “Miss Jelani believes football is more than just a game — it’s a bridge that connects young people, promotes discipline, and strengthens peace and brotherhood within the community,” he said.
The tournament opened with a spectacular encounter between Ganye Feeders FC and Youngster FC, a match that kept the audience on edge from start to finish. Both teams displayed incredible skill, determination, and teamwork, setting the perfect tone for what promises to be an action-packed competition.
Spectators filled the stands, waving banners and chanting team anthems as the players battled for supremacy on the field. The electric atmosphere reflected not just a passion for football, but also a renewed sense of community pride.
Miss Sirente Jelani’s story continues to inspire many across Adamawa State. Rising through the ranks from a Councillor to her current role as the Vice Chairperson of Ganye Local Government, she stands as a shining example of how dedication, humility, and vision can transform leadership.
Her tireless efforts toward youth inclusion and empowerment have earned her widespread respect, especially among young women aspiring to participate in politics.
> “Leadership is not defined by age, but by purpose and service,” a resident of Ganye said.
“Miss Jelani has shown that young people — especially women — can lead with compassion and results.”
Playing a key role in the organization of the Smart Charity Cup is Sani Smart, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Executive Chairman of Ganye LGA.
A Political Science graduate and an emerging strategist, Sani Smart is widely recognized for his intellect, creativity, and commitment to community growth.
His collaboration with the Vice Chairperson and the Executive Chairman, Hon. Farouk Mohammed, continues to position Ganye as a model of progressive local governance built on teamwork, innovation, and youthful energy.
Insiders within the local government describe Hon. Mohammed’s administration as a “youth-driven engine of change,” blending experience with the vitality of young minds like Jelani and Smart to deliver results that resonate with the people
Beyond the trophies and medals, the Smart Charity Cup 2025 serves a greater purpose — to promote peace, friendship, and unity among the people of Ganye.
It provides a platform for young talents to showcase their potential, while fostering healthy competition and mutual respect across communities.
As the tournament unfolds in the coming days, fans are optimistic that the competition will not only produce future football stars but also strengthen the social fabric of the local government.
With the rhythm of drums, chants of supporters, and the beautiful game taking centre stage, one message echoes across Ganye:
The Smart Charity Cup 2025 is not just about football — it’s about building peace, nurturing dreams, and inspiring the next generation of leaders.
Quote Highlight
> “This tournament is not just about winning matches — it’s about winning hearts and building a stronger Ganye.”
— Miss Sirente Jelani (Nyawi Sugu), Vice Chairperson, Ganye Local Government.
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