By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR, has reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to fostering peace, unity, and youth empowerment through sports and other non-kinetic initiatives designed to strengthen national cohesion.
Speaking at the Grand Finale of the 2025 Chief of Defence Staff Peace and Unity Cup held on Tuesday, 21 October 2025, in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, General Musa described the event as a remarkable success and a strong symbol of hope for national integration. The event, according to a statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, brought together government officials, security leaders, and youths from Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara States.
In his remarks, the CDS expressed deep satisfaction with the smooth conclusion of the football tournament, describing it as “a celebration of peace, unity, and development anchored on the shared belief that sports can be a bridge between communities and a catalyst for social transformation.” He commended the planning committees from Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara States for their dedication, noting that their collaborative efforts had once again demonstrated the power of partnership in promoting peace and harmony across communities.
General Musa explained that the Peace and Unity Cup was initiated as part of the AFN’s non-kinetic strategy to complement ongoing military operations across the country. He emphasized that lasting peace cannot be achieved through the force of arms alone, but must be sustained through dialogue, inclusion, empowerment, and active community engagement. “Sports, particularly football, provides a common platform where young people from diverse backgrounds can meet, compete, and connect as brothers and sisters united by a shared goal,” he said.
The Defence Chief lauded the high level of performance, discipline, and sportsmanship demonstrated by all the participating teams, coaches, and officials, noting that the tournament showcased how youths could channel their energy into positive ventures. “This is the kind of transformation we seek, where our youth become builders of peace rather than agents of conflict,” he added.
General Musa expressed gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his steadfast commitment to national unity and development. He also extended appreciation to the Governor and people of Kebbi State for their hospitality and support, as well as traditional rulers, security agencies, sponsors, and other stakeholders from the three participating states for their contributions to the success of the event.
He further commended the professionalism and dedication of commanders and personnel of all security agencies in Kebbi State, acknowledging the critical roles played by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, the Commander Sector 2 Joint Task Force (Operation Hadarin Daji), and other service commanders who worked tirelessly to ensure peace and order in the region.
Addressing the youth, General Musa charged them to apply the lessons of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance learned during the tournament to their everyday lives, urging them to shun all forms of criminality. “Do not allow anyone to convince you to take part in crime. It does not pay. Once there is peace, there will be development,” he stated, encouraging them to remain ambassadors of peace within their homes, schools, and communities.
The CDS concluded by calling on Nigerians to renew their collective resolve to build a nation that celebrates unity, values diversity, and creates opportunities for every young person to thrive. “May the spirit of peace and solidarity continue to shine across Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara States, and indeed the entire nation,” he affirmed.
The grand finale was attended by the Governor of Kebbi State, members of his cabinet, senior military officers, local government officials, and a large crowd of enthusiastic spectators who came to witness the event that celebrated peace through sports.
