By Abdul Hayi Moomen 
UDS Media

It was a moment that beautifully blended faith, fame, and football glory when revered Islamic cleric, Shehu Dalhu Abdul Mumin, paid a surprise visit to the triumphant University for Development Studies (UDS) football team during a live television interview at Sagani TV in Tamale.

The UDS football team, who made history by winning the 2025 FISU Universities World Football Championship in Dalian, China, had been invited to the studio for an exclusive interview with renowned sports journalist Abdul Mugis. The atmosphere in the studio was electric as laughter, gratitude, and pride filled the air as the players and officials recounted their unforgettable journey to global victory.

During the live interview, the players and management took turns to express their heartfelt appreciation to Ghanaians, particularly, President John Dramani Mahama, for the warm reception accorded them upon arrival in Accra. They also extended deep gratitude to the people of Tamale for the grand heroes’ welcome that turned the city into a festival of pride and joy. “Tamale showed us love beyond measure,” said Coach Shaibu Ibrahim Tanko, visibly moved by the overwhelming support the team received. “Everywhere we turned, people were celebrating with us. It’s something we will never forget.”

Halfway through the interview, the unexpected happened. The studio doors opened quietly, and in walked Shehu Dalhu Abdul Mumin, the respected Islamic scholar and spiritual leader known across Ghana and beyond for his humility and deep sense of community. His sudden appearance brought the entire studio to a brief standstill.

Touched by the exploits of the young champions, Shehu Dalhu came bearing gifts, a symbolic trophy, which he presented to the team, and a designer wristwatch, which he personally handed over to be delivered to Coach Tanko.

In a brief but heartfelt address, the Shehu praised the players for bringing pride not just to UDS or Ghana, but to the entire African continent.  “You have lifted the name of Africa high,” Shehu Dalhu said. “Your victory shows that with discipline, unity, and faith, nothing is impossible. This small gesture is my way of saying thank you for bringing joy to our hearts and glory to our people.” The gesture drew emotional applause from the players, journalists, and crew members present.

Team captain Asigre Sulemana Mohammed spoke on behalf of his teammates, expressing their deep appreciation for the Shehu’s generosity and blessings. “We are honoured and inspired by your visit, Shehu,” he said. “Your words and your gifts mean a lot to us. We promise to continue making UDS, Tamale, and Ghana proud.”

The surprise visit by Shehu Dalhu Abdul Mumin added yet another memorable chapter to the fairytale homecoming of the UDS World Champions, a team whose triumph continues to unite Ghanaians, inspire Africa, and prove that greatness truly thrives where humility, hard work, and faith meet.