The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR, has reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to promoting peace, unity, and youth empowerment through sports and other non-kinetic initiatives designed to foster national cohesion.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, following the Grand Finale of the CDS Peace and Unity Cup 2025, held on Tuesday, 21 October 2025, in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State.
Speaking at the event, General Musa expressed deep satisfaction with the successful completion of the tournament, describing it as “a celebration of peace, unity, and development anchored on the shared belief that sports can serve as a bridge between communities and a catalyst for social transformation.”
The CDS commended the Planning Committee drawn from Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara States for their tireless efforts in organizing the event, noting that the initiative once again demonstrated the power of collaboration in building a safer and more united Nigeria.
He explained that the Peace and Unity Cup forms part of the AFN’s non-kinetic strategy to complement ongoing military operations, emphasizing that true peace cannot be achieved by the force of arms alone but must be sustained through dialogue, inclusion, empowerment, and 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,” General Musa stated.
He praised the discipline and sportsmanship displayed by the participating teams and highlighted the tournament’s role in positively transforming youths who might otherwise have been vulnerable to negative influences or criminal recruitment.
“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 appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his steadfast commitment to national development and unity. He also thanked the Governor and people of Kebbi State for their hospitality, as well as traditional rulers, security agencies, sponsors, and organizers from the participating states for their contributions to the success of the event.
He further commended security agencies in Kebbi State for their professionalism and partnership in maintaining peace and stability, while acknowledging the roles of the GOC 8 Division, Commander Sector 2 Joint Task Force (Operation Hadarin Daji), and other service commanders for their dedication and support.
Addressing the youth, the CDS urged them to uphold the values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance learned during the competition, while shunning criminal activities.
“Do not allow anyone to lure you into crime. It does not pay. Once there is peace, there will be development,” he advised.
General Musa concluded by calling on Nigerians to renew their collective commitment to building a nation where unity is celebrated, diversity is valued, and every young person is given the opportunity 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 event was graced by the Governor of Kebbi State, members of the State Executive Council, senior military officers, and local government officials.
