The Nigerian Military has reaffirmed its commitment to youth development and national unity, stressing that sports remains a vital tool for discipline, resilience and character-building.
The Nigerian Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, General Christopher Musa, made this known at the closing of his Abuja Military Barracks Youths Sports Championship 2025.
Represented by the Chief of Transformation and Innovation and the Managing Director Defence Holding Company Limited, Air Vice Marshal Nkem Aguiyi, he shared a few words about unity through sports.
“A four-day championship that brought together participants from various military barracks in Abuja, underscored the importance of channeling the energy of youths into positive engagements,” he said.
“The event provided an avenue to combat social ills such as insecurity and substance abuse by promoting mentorship, teamwork and purposeful activities.”
According to him, the championship, which featured trials of skill, stamina and strength, also showcased the values of respect, discipline, resilience and unity.
He noted that these are qualities that define not only soldiers but also Nigerians striving for a stronger and more cohesive society.
“Spectators and participants alike, witnessed a festival of sportsmanship that emphasised camaraderie over rivalry,” he added.
He commended the participants, while stressing that every competitor emerged a winner regardless of trophies won.
The Defence Chief hailed the courage, determination and willpower displayed throughout the competition, noting that such character traits are essential to the strength of the Armed Forces and the future of the nation.
“On behalf of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, I assure you that we will continue to support programmes that empower our youth, strengthen our communities, and build a Nigeria we can all be proud of,” he said.
He urged them to carry forward the lessons from this championship, saying unity is strength and discipline is the foundation of excellence.
The Defence Chief said this as he formally declared the 2025 Abuja Military Barracks Youth Sports Championship closed.
The championship featured Basketball, Football and Volleyball. The Football match was between Mambila and Lungi Barracks.
At the end of the match, they drew, and through a penalty, Lungi won the match with one goal.
By Martha Obi, Abuja.