It was a day of celebration and reflection as the President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs. Oghogho Musa, closed the curtain on the closing ceremony of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association Inter-Secondary School Sports Championship where she urged hundreds of the competitors to stay aways from drugs and “Live Free, Stay Clean” in all they do.
Mrs. Musa thanked her husband, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Gwabin Musa, for his constant love and support, raining encomiums on him.
According to her, “A heart full of gratitude and a spirit lifted by the incredible energy of this championship stand before you today to deliver this vote of thanks on behalf of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) and the entire organizing team.
“Indeed, this is the day the Lord has made, and we will rejoice and be glad in it. Everything we asked of the Lord, He has done for us. Our hearts overflow with gratitude.
“Let me begin by expressing my profound appreciation to our Special Guest of Honour, my beloved husband, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR — my crown, my king, my lord. Thank you, my dear, for your constant support and love, and for standing by us.
“You have been here since morning without complaint, sharing in our joy and inspiring our children. God bless you richly.
“Your presence has dignified this ceremony and inspired our young athletes. Your words of encouragement and the time you devoted to be with us mean so much.
“I also extend heartfelt appreciation to the principals and representatives of all participating schools for granting these talented young minds the opportunity to compete. Your commitment to the holistic development of your students is truly commendable.
“To the unsung heroes of this event — the coaches, games masters and mistresses — we say a big thank you. You spent countless hours mentoring and guiding these young stars. You have not only trained them in sport but instilled discipline, teamwork, and resilience.
“Special appreciation goes to the technical officials, referees, and judges for your professionalism and fairness, which upheld the integrity of this championship.”
She lauded the facilitator of the programme, saying he has inspired the school children to live healthy, purposeful, and drug-free lives.
“To the Service Chiefs, Principal Staff Officers, and senior officers who have supported our various associations, thank you for your partnership.
“I commend my sisters — the Presidents and members of NAOWA, NOWA, NAFOWA and POWA — for their collective spirit and support.
“My special appreciation goes to the DEPOWA Vice President, Dr. Bukola Alade, and the entire organizing committee. You are the engine room of this event. From planning to execution, your tireless efforts ensured the success we celebrate today.
“A word of gratitude also to Major Sawa, who has worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure everything ran smoothly. Thank you for your energy and commitment.
“And now, to the stars of this championship — our students: you have displayed exceptional talent, sportsmanship, and discipline. Whether you won a medal or not, you are all champions. You have run, jumped, and competed with honor, and we are immensely proud of you.
“Let the lessons you’ve learned here guide you. Let the friendships forged continue to grow. And may the message of this championship — “Live Free, Stay Clean” — remain in your hearts long after today.
“Go forth as ambassadors of a healthy, active, and drug-free life.”
She also appreciated school principals, coaches, referees, and facilitators who “spent countless hours mentoring and guiding the young stars.”
She praised First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, saying, “Thank you, Ma, for your motherly inspiration and guidance.”
To the young athletes, she declared: “Whether you won a medal or not, you are all champions. Go forth as ambassadors of a healthy, active, and drug-free life.”