By Magnus Chukwudi, Port Harcourt<\/p>\n
The Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede has declared, that the under 15 football championship, a key component of the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s non-kinetic intervention strategy, aimed at addressing insecurity, especially in the South\/South region, as well as Imo and Abia states.<\/p>\n
In such a strategic move to curb youth-related crime and promote peace in the Niger Delta region, the CDS, General Oluyede, launched the maiden edition of the ‘Under-15 Boys Football Championship 2025’, on Monday evening, in Port Harcourt, with participants across the South-South region.<\/p>\n
Represented at the event by Rear Admiral Gideon Kachim, the CDS explained that the six-day competition is designed to engage young people positively, discourage criminal tendencies, and strengthen collaborations between security agencies and host communities.<\/p>\n
He noted that sports remain a powerful tool for unity, discipline, and early talent development, adding that sustained youth engagement is critical to long-term peace and stability in the region<\/p>\n
\u201cThis championship symbolizes the spirit of teamwork, discipline, and healthy competition that defines our great nation. As we mark this significant milestone, it is a testament to our nation\u2019s commitment to promoting unity, social cohesion, and national pride.<\/p>\n
The football championship which will continue for the next six days, provides an avenue to deter future security challenges with the cooperation of the good citizens of Nigeria through a non-kinetic approach.<\/p>\n
\u201c
\nThis championship forms a critical part of the Armed Forces of Nigeria\u2019s non-kinetic intervention efforts, especially in the South-South region”, the army boss affirmed.<\/p>\n
According to the CDS, sports provide a platform to deepen engagement with youths, channel their energy toward excellence, and steer them away from crime and other social vices.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Niger Delta region, like many parts of our nation, faces unique social and security challenges. While the Armed Forces of Nigeria continue to apply kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to enhance peace and stability, initiatives such as this football competition are crucial in redirecting the energy, creativity and potentials of our young population toward meaningful pursuits. By empowering this generation, we help build a safer, more stable and more prosperous future for all,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cPhysical activities such as football not only promote fitness, but also instil teamwork, resilience and discipline which are essential qualities for nation-building.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis aligns with our broader national strategy of strengthening youth development through constructive platforms that encourage excellence.\u201d<\/p>\n
He, however, emphasized that the Armed Forces of Nigeria will continue to work closely with relevant stakeholders, state governments, development partners, sports organizations and community leaders to ensure sustained youth engagement and peace-building efforts across the country.<\/p>\n
The CDS charged the youths to compete with the spirit of fair play, discipline and sportsmanship. To the coaches and officiating team, I urge you to uphold professionalism, fairness, integrity and most importantly empathy throughout the championship.<\/p>\n
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, whose commitment to youth empowerment, national security and the welfare of the Armed Forces continues to inspire initiatives such as the football competition.<\/p>\n
He also thanked the service chiefs, Slstate authorities, community leaders and partners particularly Greater Heights Global Sports Development Limited for their invaluable support in organizing this event as well as the Rivers State Government for, co-sponsoring the event.<\/p>\n
Earlier in his welcome address, the Director of Sports, Defence Headquarters, Air Vice Marshal Patrick Phillips, said sports like the current tournament, transcend boundaries and unite people from diverse background.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt teaches us the values of teamwork, discipline and perseverance. The importance of fitness to our youths cannot be over emphasized.<\/p>\n
\u201cUndoubtedly, this championship has come at a time when good working relationships between the military and civil is mostly required to ultimately overcome the enormity of security challenges being faced by our dear nation.\u201d<\/p>\n
He highlighted the importance of friendly sporting competitions like this in strengthening working relationships between the military and the community, noting that such unity ultimately benefits the broader citizenry and supports the nation\u2019s constitutional objectives. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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