The town of Berja came alive on Saturday evening as residents and visitors gathered for a spectacular Musical Sports Festival, one of the highlights of the town’s annual fair and festivities. Organised by Atlético Berja under the leadership of its President, Chief Dotun Jubril Sanusi, the event brought together music, sport and international friendship in a celebration that captivated the local community.
The evening featured an exciting tribute to the music of the 1990s, headlined by two of Spain’s most celebrated bands, Los Inhumanos and No Me Pises Que Llevo Chanclas. Their energetic performances of timeless classics created an electric atmosphere, drawing enthusiastic applause from a large audience of families, friends and visitors who filled the venue.
Among the distinguished guests were the Mayor of Berja, members of the Berja Town Council, representatives of Swieqi United FC from Malta, officials of Atlético Berja and Berja Club de Fútbol, and other invited guests, reflecting the growing international partnerships that continue to strengthen the club’s vision.
A defining moment of the evening came when the Mayor of Berja took to the stage to warmly welcome the gathering and proudly introduce the new President of Atlético Berja, Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, to the audience. The introduction was met with enthusiastic applause and reflected the municipality’s strong support for the club’s new leadership and its vision for the future. The Mayor’s presence and public endorsement added a special significance to the occasion, setting the tone for an evening of celebration, unity and optimism.
Delivering the keynote address, Chief Dotun Jubril Sanusi described the occasion as “more than a celebration” and “history in the making.” He expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Mayor, the people of Berja, Almería and Spain for their warm hospitality and unwavering support for the Musical Sports Festival.
“From the bottom of our hearts, we say thank you,” he said. “Thank you for opening your hearts, your community and your beautiful city to us. Your love and hospitality remind us that when people come together, extraordinary things happen.”
Emphasising the deeper purpose behind the event, Chief Sanusi said football and music possess a unique ability to unite people across borders.
“Football is more than a game. Music is more than entertainment. Together, they become a universal language that unites people regardless of nationality, culture or background.”
He noted that the evening symbolised the growing friendship between Spain, Malta and Nigeria.
“Tonight, we proudly stand together as one family—from Malta, Nigeria and Spain. Different flags, different cultures, but one passion, one purpose and one dream.”
Looking to the future, Chief Sanusi shared an ambitious vision for Atlético Berja, expressing confidence that through unity, discipline, hard work and the unwavering support of the local community, the club could grow into one of the most respected football institutions in Spain and beyond.
“We believe in Atlético Berja. We believe in Berja Club. We believe that with hard work, unity, discipline and the support of this great community, this club can rise to incredible heights. We dream of seeing Atlético Berja become a name respected across Spain, across Europe and throughout the world—standing proudly among the greatest clubs and inspiring generations to come.”
Turning to the younger generation, he delivered a message of hope and encouragement.
“To the young boys and girls watching us tonight: dream without limits. Work hard. Stay humble. Never stop believing that your hometown can produce champions, leaders and legends.”
As he concluded his address, Chief Sanusi invited everyone to embrace the spirit of celebration while building friendships that transcend borders.
“So tonight, let us celebrate. Let us dance. Let us sing. Let us enjoy this unforgettable Musical Sports Night. Let us build friendships that cross borders and create a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.”
His closing declaration drew loud applause from the audience.
“Together, we can do it. Together, we will make history. Together, we will raise Atlético Berja to new heights.”
He ended by invoking God’s blessings upon Berja, Almería, Spain, Malta, Nigeria and everyone present before officially declaring the celebration open.
The Musical Sports Festival was widely acclaimed as one of the standout events of this year’s Berja Fair, demonstrating the power of music and sport to unite communities, celebrate cultural diversity and foster lasting international friendships. Under the leadership of Chief Dotun Jubril Sanusi, Atlético Berja is rapidly establishing itself not only as an ambitious football club but also as a platform for community engagement, cultural exchange and international collaboration.
Saturday night’s celebration was more than an evening of entertainment—it was a powerful statement of shared purpose and the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Atlético Berja, the people of Berja and its growing family of partners across Spain, Malta and Nigeria.
