Abuja: The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to supporting initiatives that empower youths, strengthen communities, and promote national development through sports. Oluyede gave the assurance at the closing ceremony of the 2026 CDS Abuja Military Barracks Youth Sports Championship.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Oluyede, represented by the General Managing Director, Defence Holdings, AVM Tony Ndace, stated that the championship had successfully promoted sportsmanship, discipline, excellence, and leadership among young people. He mentioned that the five-day event brought together youths from military barracks across the Federal Capital Territory to foster friendship, unity, and healthy competition.
Oluyede emphasized the importance of the lessons learned from the championship, highlighting the spirit of sportsmanship and excellence. He noted that the youths competed fairly, displayed remarkable talents, and demonstrated that future leaders would emerge from among them. The Armed Forces recognize sports as an important tool for youth development and national integration, especially at a time when the country faces challenges of insecurity, youth restiveness, and the abuse of banned substances.
The competition showcased not only athletic ability but also discipline, resilience, respect, and teamwork, which are values that define the Nigerian Armed Forces. Oluyede stated that the youths showed that sport is not just about winning competitions but about building character, promoting unity, and preparing themselves for greater responsibilities in the future.
The CDS commended the organizers, coaches, mentors, and parents for their commitment to nurturing young talents and ensuring the success of the championship. He added that the military would continue to collaborate with corporate organizations and other stakeholders to sustain youth-focused programs across the country. Oluyede expressed optimism that more organizations would partner with the military in future sporting events.
Frederick Marcus, the representative of the participating athletes, expressed gratitude to the CDS, the organizing committee, coaches, military authorities, and parents for making the championship a success. Marcus highlighted that the event provided participants with valuable experience, discipline, and opportunities to develop their talents. He thanked the coaches, officials, mentors, and supporters for their encouragement throughout the competition.
At the conclusion of the championship, Lungi Barracks emerged as overall champions, securing two gold, two silver, and one bronze medal, totaling five medals. Mogadishu Cantonment finished second, while NAF Valley Base secured third place. The championship featured eight participating barracks, including Mambilla Barracks, Mogadishu Cantonment, NAF Valley Base, Nigerian Navy Base Barracks, General A.O. Azazi Barracks, NAF Bill Clinton Base, Lungi Barracks, and Shittu Alao Barracks.
The championship, organized by the Defence Headquarters, commenced on August 3 at the Mogadishu Cantonment Sports Complex and Aguyi Ironsi Sports Complex in Abuja and concluded on August 7, with cash prizes and trophies awarded to the winners.