The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has urged officers of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to stay fit and remain committed to defending the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the nation.
General Oluyede made this known during the Armed Forces’ Annual 5-kilometre Route March held in Abuja, which commenced from Aguiyi Ironsi Barracks to Mambilla Barracks and returned to Aguiyi Ironsi Barracks.
Represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Defence, Air Vice Marshal Francis Edosa, the Defence Chief described the route march as a vital military exercise that promotes teamwork, discipline and endurance among personnel.
According to him, the exercise goes beyond physical activity, as it serves as a demonstration of the Armed Forces’ collective determination and readiness to discharge their constitutional responsibilities in defence of the country.
“Maintaining physical fitness should not be seen merely as an institutional requirement but as a personal responsibility for every service member,” General Oluyede said.
He urged personnel to cultivate regular fitness routines even after the event. The General reminded officers and soldiers that the Armed Forces have established fitness standards, which must be met by personnel who seek to remain operationally effective.
The Chief of Defence Staff emphasised that physical fitness remains central to military capability, noting that a fit soldier is a capable soldier and that a fit force is better positioned to confront emerging security challenges and complex operational environments.
General Oluyede also praised departmental heads, directors-general and commanders for mobilising their personnel to participate in the exercise, while appreciating all officers and men who turned out for the event.
He further applauded the Director of Sports and his team for the successful coordination of the route march and encouraged them to sustain the initiative.
