By Nkechi Eze
The Defence Headquarters has announced that all arrangements have been concluded for the maiden edition of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Under-15 Boys Football Championship, scheduled to hold in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, from 13 to 20 December 2025.
Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, disclosed that the tournament will feature selected Under-15 boys’ teams drawn from surrounding communities and military barracks, representing each state in the South-South region, with teams also participating from Imo and Abia States. He explained that the championship is a key component of the broader vision of the Chief of Defence Staff, General OO Oluyede, to promote capacity building, youth development and social cohesion, particularly among young people across the South-South, including Abia and Imo States.
According to Major General Uba, the tournament has been carefully designed to provide a constructive platform for youths to engage in productive sporting activities that foster physical fitness, social integration and positive values. Beyond the football matches, participants will be sensitised on the importance of shunning social vices and contributing meaningfully to national development.
He noted that the championship will also serve as a talent discovery platform, while instilling essential values such as teamwork, discipline and sportsmanship. Through their participation, the young players are expected to showcase their abilities, develop critical life skills and build confidence that will prepare them for a brighter and more promising future.
The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed that the CDS Under-15 Boys Football Championship reflects the military’s commitment to engaging youths positively, using sports as a tool for unity, character building and long-term social stability across the region.
