Head of Political and Public Affairs at the High Commission of Canada in Nigeria, Omar Alihashi, has explained the thinking behind the Abuja Diplomatic Soccer Tournament, describing football as one of the most powerful tools for promoting diplomacy, inclusion and community engagement.
The one-day tournament, organised by the Political and Public Affairs Section of the Canadian High Commission, was held to celebrate Canada’s role as co-host of the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside the United States and Mexico.
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The event attracted members of the diplomatic community, government officials, civil society organisations, football enthusiasts and families in an atmosphere that reflected the unifying power of sport.
Speaking exclusively to Sports247, Alihashi said the initiative was designed to celebrate the World Cup while strengthening relationships among different communities.
“Today’s tournament is a celebration of Canada’s hosting of the FIFA Men’s World Cup alongside Mexico and the United States. We felt it was important to bring together members of the diplomatic community and civil society to celebrate the World Cup spirit and showcase the power of sport to unite people,” Alihashi told Sports247.
He explained that the competition forms part of the High Commission’s broader public affairs strategy aimed at strengthening people-to-people relationships through sport.
“We view sport as a powerful tool for bringing communities together. That is what we are doing here today, and we are delighted by the tremendous turnout. We have representatives from the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Sports Commission, diplomatic missions, civil society organisations, supporters, families and friends—all gathered here to enjoy the game and celebrate together,” he said.
Alihashi also highlighted inclusion as one of the major objectives of the event, pointing to the Para Soccer novelty match as a key feature of the tournament.
“Inclusion is a central theme of this tournament. Sports is about ensuring that everyone has a place and an opportunity to participate. That is why we were proud to feature the Para Soccer team in a novelty match. Their participation was a powerful demonstration of what sport truly represents by bringing people together regardless of differences. It created a wonderful atmosphere and reinforced our belief that sports can break barriers and promote a sense of belonging for everyone,” he told Sports247.
The Abuja Diplomatic Soccer Tournament formed part of activities marking Canada’s countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup and highlighted football’s ability to promote friendship, diversity and international cooperation beyond the boundaries of competition.
