By Nkechi Eze
The National Defence College (NDC), Abuja, on Saturday celebrated its Course 33 Graduation Sports Fiesta, a vibrant and symbolic event held as part of activities preceding the formal graduation of participants of the strategic leadership programme.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, was represented at the event by the Director of Sports, Defence Headquarters, Brigadier General Nanjul Kenneth Kumzhi, who emphasised the importance of physical fitness and discipline in the development of strategic-level leaders. He described the fiesta as a vital platform that promotes “good health, discipline and teamwork core values that underpin the training of strategic-level leaders.”
Welcoming participants and guests, Brigadier General Kumzhi reflected on the importance of sports in the national security architecture and commended the graduands for their dedication. “Undoubtedly, a sporting event of this nature promotes good health, discipline and teamwork, which are some of the goals of the strategic-level higher management course you have undergone in the past 11 months,” he said on behalf of the CDS.
He congratulated the graduands on completing the rigorous programme and encouraged them to maintain the spirit of sportsmanship in their professional lives, noting that there is a strong connection between physical fitness and mental capacity especially during a period characterised by complex security challenges. “Without a functioning mind and body, one cannot bring to bear the acquired knowledge and skills as strategic thinkers in matters of security and development,” he added.
General Musa, a well-known sports enthusiast, reiterated the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to promoting sports and recreation as tools for peacebuilding and national development. According to him, “Sports serve as a bridge between the military and civil society, promoting cooperation and unity which ultimately aid our security responsibilities.”
The day’s events featured a variety of competitions including football, volleyball, tennis, badminton, table tennis and tug of war, with participants, staff and families enthusiastically taking part. The College Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Ayodele Ibrahim Anidu, who represented the Commandant, Rear Admiral Olumuyiwa Olukusibe, stated that the NDC has institutionalised the Graduation Sports Fiesta as an integral tradition for every set of course participants.
“We believe that being sound in mind is closely connected with being fit in body. That is why sports remain a central part of our training culture at the National Defence College. This fiesta is not just about competition, but also about building comradeship, friendship and fun,” AVM Anidu said.
He reassured participants that the College would continue to invest in sporting and recreational activities that promote the well-being of its community, and foster strong bonds among participants, staff and their families.
In his closing remarks, the CDS once again underscored the Armed Forces’ unalloyed commitment to democratic governance and professionalism, urging the graduands to remain loyal to constituted authority and uphold the principles of military service in defence of Nigeria’s democracy.
The colourful event ended on a note of camaraderie and celebration, with participants, families, staff and invited guests rejoicing together as “winners” in a day marked by healthy rivalry, unity and fun.
