By Aderonke Ojo
The Chief of Defence Staff, (CDS) Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa, on Sunday said that the aims of Democracy Day Basketball Championship is to foster unity and talent development theme among the youths in the country.
He declared open the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Democracy Day Basketball Championship, at the Indoor Sports Hall, Package B, of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, a platform designed to promote national unity and develop young talents on Sunday in Abuja.
Musa said that the championship brings together 16 teams of talented young basketball players from across the region to compete for top honors.
“ The event aims to promote peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and civil-military relations through sports.
“ To identify and nurture young talents to contribute effectively to nation-building.
“ Engage youth in constructive activities, keeping them away from social vices and fostering their development,” he said.
Musa also emphasized the importance of sports in promoting national unity and developing young people’s skills.
He noted that investing in youth through sports can have a lasting impact on individuals and society, promoting a brighter future for all.
“ The tournament aims to strengthen civil-military cooperation by engaging youth in healthy competition, promoting mutual understanding and respect.
“ Sports play a vital role in achieving this objective, teaching valuable life lessons such as balance in life, resilience in the face of failure, and humility in victory,” he said.
Brig. Gen. Aliyu Abdulahi, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, welcomed participants to the 2nd edition of the Chief of Defence Staff Democracy Day Under 18 Basketball Championship.
The event aims to:Promote peaceful cohesion among youth
Encourage tolerance in society
Foster civil-military relationships
Enhance security through non-kinetic approach.
“ The championship provides a platform for Nigerian youth to:
Participate in constructive activities, Showcase talents nationally and internationally and Earn legitimate livelihood,” he said.
About 250 young basketball players and officials from North Central, North East, and FCT are participating in the championship.
“ The LOC encourages players to focus on sportsmanship, skill development, and camaraderie.
“ The event is expected to be an exciting platform for young Nigerian basketball players to showcase their talents and make a positive impact on the community,” he said.
He appreciates, Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, for trusting the LOC and providing resources for the tournament.
“ The LOC members for their dedication and hard work.
“ The championship is part of the CDS’s non-kinetic approach to improving security and civil-military relations in Nigeria.,” he said.
A total of 16 teams comprising of 10 male and 6 female teams from North Central and FCT, are participating in the championship. started on June 13 and is expected to end on June 18 at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.