By Bavoriat Clara
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has restated the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to youth empowerment, discipline, and national unity through sports as the 2025 Abuja Military Barracks Youth Sports Championship came to a colourful close at Mogadishu Cantonment, Abuja.
The four-day championship featured competitions in football, basketball, and volleyball, with participants drawn from various military formations and barracks within the Federal Capital Territory.
It was aimed at fostering discipline, resilience, and teamwork among the youth while also serving as a platform to identify and nurture emerging talents who could represent Nigeria in future sporting engagements.
General Musa, who was represented at the closing ceremony by Air Vice Marshal Nkem Aguyi, Group Managing Director of Defence Holdings Company Ltd, described the event as a huge success. He explained that although he had intended to attend personally, pressing national duties kept him away.
Delivering the CDS’s remarks, AVM Aguyi said: “The objectives of this championship were not only achieved but clearly exceeded. It has provided our young people with an opportunity to channel their energy into positive ventures, while also strengthening the bond of unity within our barracks community.
”He added: “Some of the participants have caught the attention of coaches and scouts present here. We believe this will open doors for professional sporting careers while building confidence, resilience, and leadership in all the athletes.”
The Defence Headquarters noted that the Abuja Military Barracks Youth Sports Championship, now in its fourth edition, has become institutionalized. It recalled similar initiatives in the past such as Democracy Day basketball tournaments and the Kaduna Peace and Reconciliation Football Tournament, describing them as part of the Armed Forces’ ongoing efforts to promote peace and national cohesion through sports.
Delivering the vote of thanks on behalf of all the athletes, Master Nisi Michael said: “We sincerely thank the Chief of Defence Staff, General C.G. Musa, for investing in the growth of the youth. Whether we won or lost, we all came out as champions, and this experience will shape our future. To our parents, coaches, and the entire organizing committee, we remain grateful for your guidance and encouragement.
”The closing ceremony featured the presentation of trophies, medals, and cash prizes to outstanding teams and individuals. Guests and participants were also treated to a colourful taekwondo display by young athletes, which highlighted the importance of martial arts in instilling discipline, focus, and self-control among the youth.
Beyond the rewards and demonstrations, the championship reinforced the role of sports as a tool for nurturing discipline, promoting peace, and steering young people away from crime, drug abuse, and other social vices.
It also underlined the Armed Forces’ conviction that when empowered and guided, Nigeria’s youth are not only champions on the field but also vital partners in building a stronger, safer, and more united nation.
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