CDS Commends NDC Sports Fiesta As Tool for Unity and Discipline
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has described sports development as a veritable panacea for national unity. He made this known on 16 August 2025 during the Sports Fiesta organised in honour of the National Defence College (NDC) Course 33 participants, held at the Aguiyi Ironsi Sports Complex, Abuja.
Represented by Air Vice Marshal Nanjul Kumzhi, the CDS emphasised that sports promote good health, discipline, and unity — values that align with the objectives of the College’s strategic-level higher management training designed to foster national cohesion. He noted that sports of this nature prepare participants for future responsibilities, particularly at a time when the nation faces security challenges.
“The nation is experiencing some security challenges, but you have been equipped with both intellectual and physical capacity to discharge your responsibilities. It is expected that you will leave the College with renewed ideas and vigour to contribute to tackling security challenges and promoting unity among Nigerian citizens,” he stated.
General Musa further underscored the importance of physical fitness in the profession of arms, stressing that sports and fitness remain indispensable to effective soldiering and the discharge of constitutional duties. He added that sports provide a platform for strengthening civil-military relations and fostering teamwork, fair play, and cooperation.
Reaffirming the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s unalloyed commitment to democratic sustainability, the CDS commended the Commandant and the NDC community for the successful completion of Course 33.
In his welcome remarks, the Commandant NDC Nigeria, Rear Admiral James Ohimai Okosun, explained that the Sports Fiesta is one of the activities lined up for the graduation of Course 33 participants. He noted that sports go beyond physical exertion, serving as a medium for camaraderie, friendship, and collective wellbeing.
“Sports bring people together in a friendly atmosphere. It encourages comradeship among members of the Armed Forces and promotes the spirit of being our brother’s keeper,” the Commandant stated.
Speaking after the event, the Coordinator of the National Defence College Officers’ Wives Association (NDCOWA), Mrs Isabela Okosun, commended the initiative, noting that it fostered social bonding within the College community. She congratulated the Course 33 participants for their resilience throughout the 11-month programme and assured of NDCOWA’s continued support for the Commandant and the College community.
The fiesta featured a variety of sporting activities, including football, volleyball, lawn tennis, and table tennis. Team Commandant emerged overall champions, lifting the winners’ trophy, while NDCOWA claimed victory in the Tug of War after edging out Team NYSC. In football, Team Commandant defeated the Participants’ Team by 3 goals to 2 in an exciting final.
