The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, on Saturday, called on participants of Course 33 of the National Defence College (NDC), Abuja, to make sports a lifelong habit and to uphold democratic values as they prepare to graduate from the college.
Musa, represented by AVM Nanjul Kumzhi, Director of Sports at the Defence Headquarters, gave the charge at the NDC Course 33 Graduation Sports Fiesta.
The CDS noted that sports remained central to the military profession, stressing that physical and mental fitness were essential to discharging the duties of defending the nation and supporting civil authority.
According to him, sports are not only for leisure but also for building discipline, teamwork, endurance, and mental sharpness—qualities required in tackling Nigeria’s contemporary security challenges.
“Sports teach us teamwork, fair play, and respect for rules. They teach us to set aside personal ambitions for collective goals, and to accept winning or losing with honour. These are hallmarks of the military profession,” he said.
Musa congratulated the Course 33 participants for successfully completing the 11-month intensive programme at the college.
He described it as “rigorous but rewarding,” and expressed confidence that the knowledge gained would contribute to addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.
“I encourage all of you to take up at least two sporting activities and keep them as part of your lifestyle.
“In doing so, you will not only maintain your health and reduce risks of ailments but also strengthen your minds and build lasting friendships,” he said.
Musa said the Armed Forces of Nigeria had remained committed to developing sports and recreation among its personnel, citing the military’s numerous sporting programmes at both service and joint levels.
He added that sports had become a tool for national cohesion, peace-building, and fostering stronger civil-military relations, as the Armed Forces continued to connect with citizens through sporting engagements.
“As a lifelong athlete myself, I can affirm that sports remain one of the easiest ways the military can bond with the civil populace, thereby promoting understanding and cooperation in the execution of our security duties,” Musa said.
The CDS also reaffirmed the military’s unwavering loyalty to democratic governance, saying the values instilled at the college must translate into service to the nation and protection of constitutional order.
“Let me reiterate our unalloyed commitment to democratic sustainability in Nigeria and the Armed Forces’ loyalty to constituted authority. As you graduate, be ever ready to defend democracy and uphold military professionalism,” he said.
In his welcome remarks earlier, the College Secretary, AVM Ayodele Hanidu, said the sports fiesta had become a regular feature of the graduation activities at the NDC, describing it as a platform for relaxation, camaraderie, and demonstration of physical fitness.
Hanidu said the fiesta reflected the college’s philosophy of balancing academic rigour with physical and mental wellbeing.
“The array of sporting activities we have lined up this year—football, volleyball, tennis, badminton, table tennis and tug-of-war—demonstrates how seriously the college takes the issue of fitness. We believe a sound mind thrives best in a sound body,” he said.
He commended the staff, participants, and their families for actively supporting the programme, adding that the college would continue to encourage sports and recreation as part of its training culture.
The event featured novelty football matches proved to be the highlights of the day, drawing loud ovations from the audience.
The fiesta concluded with the presentation of medals and trophies to winning teams, while participants and guests celebrated in a spirit of friendship and unity.
It is part of activities lined up to celebrate the graduation of the NDC Course 33.
