The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa has declared open Basketball championship to commemorate the Democracy Day Celebration.
General Musa made the declaration at the Basketball pitch at Old Parade Ground, Garki, Abuja.
According to the chief, the event marks an important milestone in celebrating the spirit of athleticism and camaraderie within the armed forces, security services and civil organizations.
He added that the Championship will showcase security forces vibrant youth from 10 male and 4 female teams while also featuring 40 veteran basketballers from across the country.
According to him, “I am thrilled to be here today at the inaugural edition of the Chief of Defence Staff Democracy Day Basketball Championship Abuja 2024.”
The objective of the Championship, he said is to promote Civil-Military Cooperation and Inter Agency collaboration.
“The competition is also aimed at engaging the Nigerian Youth positively in furtherance to
our non-kinetic approach to improving security throughout the country. By organizing this Competition, it is my hope that Basketballers from the military, paramilitary and the civil society including our veterans would continue to maintain a high level of mental alertness and physical fitness.
“The timing of the Competition is not only apt but also key to building stronger bonds that resonates across the military and other parastatals of government.
“Let me at this juncture extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the teams, players, coaches, and organizers for their dedication in making this championship a reality.
“Your commitment to excellence and sportsmanship exemplifies the values we hold dear in our nation. I urge all participants to embody these values both on and off the court, inspiring others with courage and determination.
“On a final note, permit me to use this medium to once again express our profound gratitude to the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unflinching support to the growth and development of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
“Let this championship be a platform for building lasting friendships, fostering healthy competition, and showcasing the immense talent within our ranks. I wish all the teams the very best of luck and may the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship guide us throughout this tournament.”
Chairman Local Organizing Committee, noted that the CDS Democracy Day Basketball Championship is first of its kind which features 10 male and 4 female teams for youth from military, para-military and civil organizations.
He added that the objective of the Championship is to promote Civil-Military cooperation and Inter Agency collaboration.
“It is also aimed at engaging the youth positively in continuance with the non-kinetic approach to improving security in the country. The Championship is taking place in two venues namely Monaliza Sports and Recreation Centre at Area 11 and here Old Parade Ground.
“To the participating teams, I encourage you all to imbibe the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie in an effort to put in optimal performance towards the Championship. For the officiating official, you are to be fair and professional in your tasks while officiating the event to ensure acceptable results.” He said.