The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has concluded the 2026 Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Democracy Day Volleyball Championship, reaffirming the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s commitment to physical fitness, esprit de corps and jointness among personnel across the Services.
In an official signed statement, Director Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, disclosed that the championship, held at the Aguiyi Ironsi Indoor Sports Complex in Abuja as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, featured male and female teams drawn from the various Services of the Armed Forces of Nigeria in a spirited display of professionalism, sportsmanship and healthy competition.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, commended the participants, organisers and officials for the successful conduct of the tournament. He described the championship as timely and significant, stressing the importance of maintaining physical, mental and emotional fitness among military personnel to effectively meet the demands of service and national responsibilities.
General Oluyede praised the high level of discipline, teamwork and resilience demonstrated throughout the competition, noting that volleyball helps to develop concentration, endurance and cooperation, which are essential qualities for military operations.
“The true value of this championship lies beyond medals and trophies. Its greatest achievements are the experiences shared, friendships forged and the spirit of unity strengthened among our personnel,” he stated.
The CDS congratulated the winning teams and encouraged other participants to remain committed to self-improvement, emphasizing that every competition offers valuable lessons for personal and professional development. He was represented at the event by the Chief of Defence Civil-Military Relations, Rear Admiral Sabiru Lawal.
Earlier, while declaring the championship open, the Chief of Defence Administration, Rear Admiral Gideon Kachim, described the event as a celebration of unity, professionalism and camaraderie within the Armed Forces of Nigeria. He observed that volleyball reflects the discipline, focus, teamwork and mental toughness expected of military personnel in the discharge of their constitutional duties.
Rear Admiral Kachim further highlighted the role of sports in building resilience, sustaining operational fitness and identifying talented athletes capable of representing both the Armed Forces and Nigeria in national and international competitions.
At the end of the tournament, the Nigerian Navy emerged the dominant force, winning both the male and female categories after defeating teams from the other Services to claim the championship trophies and cash prizes. The Service also secured the Most Valuable Player awards in both categories.
The Defence Headquarters noted that sports remain one of the key instruments for promoting jointness and strengthening camaraderie within the Armed Forces of Nigeria. It added that the level of participation, competitive spirit and teamwork displayed throughout the championship demonstrated the achievement of the event’s objectives.
