The member of the House of Representatives representing Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency, Hon. Muktar Shagaya, has described sports as a vital instrument for fostering social cohesion, promoting peaceful coexistence, and unearthing grassroots athletic talent.

Shagaya made the assertion during the final match of the Shagaya Soccer Fiesta 2026, a grassroots football competition organized in his honour in Ilorin.

Addressing attendees at the event, the lawmaker highlighted the role of sporting events in bringing communities together and nurturing young talent across the state.

"Sports is another way to discover new talents, promote peaceful coexistence and unity at the grassroots. You can see excitement on everybody's face. This is one of the uniqueness of sporting activities," Shagaya stated.

He reaffirmed his commitment to driving community development and empowering youth across the Ilorin West/Asa Federal Constituency.

Following the match, the lawmaker presented trophies and monetary rewards to the participating teams. Impressed by the turnout and active engagement of the host community, Shagaya also awarded academic scholarships to selected students.

The final fixture between Super Star FC of Asa Local Government Area and Sunshine FC of Ilorin West ended in a draw during regulation time, with Sunshine FC securing the championship title following a penalty shootout.

In his remarks at the event, the Convener of Solidarity for Good Governance and Kwara Central Chairman for the Kwara North Agenda, AbdulMajeed AbdulWahab Temidire, praised the lawmaker's constituency interventions across the healthcare, education, infrastructure, and employment sectors.

Temidire noted that all 29 electoral wards within the federal constituency have benefited from developmental projects under Shagaya's representation, calling on constituents to support his return to the National Assembly.