United Nations says football promotes unity, peace and support for global development goals across communities worldwide.

The UN has described football as more than a game, saying it unites people across borders, cultures and communities.

Speaking during the World Football Day event at the Astro Turf in Wuse, Abuja, the National Information Officer and Officer-in-Charge of the United Nations Information Centre, Oluseyi Soremekun, said football promotes teamwork, resilience and unity.

The event featured a football match and fitness activities.

Soremekun said the programme reflected efforts to promote health and support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

He said World Football Day recognises the global impact of football and its role in peace, diplomacy and international cooperation.

According to him, football also supports conversations around climate action, education, health, inclusion and gender equality.

Soremekun highlighted the United Nations’ Football for the Goals initiative, which uses football to promote sustainability, equality, human rights and climate action.

Quoting UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, he said football has a strong voice in promoting awareness of the SDGs.

He also revealed that the UN recently named 16 football legends as Football for the Goals Champions, including Nigerian football icon Daniel Amokachi.

Soremekun urged participants to see football as a tool for building a healthier and more peaceful society.

The event was organised by the United Nations Information Centre in partnership with The Outsiders Hash House Harriers. (AriseNews TV)