The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR, has commended the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) for its commitment to grassroots sports development and youth empowerment through the “Live Free, Stay Clean” Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Championship.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the championship in Abuja, General Musa described the event as a remarkable platform for nurturing discipline, teamwork, and perseverance among Nigerian youths. He noted that secondary school sports remain the bedrock upon which many global sports icons built their careers, urging stakeholders to sustain efforts in developing young talent.
“This championship goes beyond a contest of youthful strength and talent; it is a formative stage in the lives of our young ones,” the CDS stated.
“History has shown that many of the world’s most celebrated athletes began their journey in secondary school sports. We must continue to support these young talents who could one day carry our national flag with pride across the world.”
The Defence Chief shared his personal connection to sports, revealing that his passion for basketball was cultivated during his own secondary school years — an experience he credited for shaping his discipline, focus, and resilience throughout his military career.
He praised the DEPOWA President, Mrs. Oghogho Musa, and her team for their commitment to reviving youth sports and character development through the championship.
“This effort has provided a platform for nurturing hidden talents and instilling values of discipline, teamwork and patriotism in our children,” he said. “Every child inspired by this championship represents a potential leader, innovator, or athlete who will help shape a better and more united Nigeria.”
General Musa further emphasized that nation-building extends beyond policies and politics, adding that empowering youths to dream, strive, and achieve is essential to national growth. He lauded DEPOWA’s initiative as timely and patriotic, urging the association to continue its efforts.
.jpg)
"By rekindling this tradition, DEPOWA has reminded us that every champion begins as a child with a dream, and every nation’s greatness lies in how it nurtures those dreams,” he concluded, before declaring the championship closed.
In her remarks, the President of DEPOWA, Mrs. Oghogho Musa, expressed deep gratitude to God, the CDS, and all partners who contributed to the success of the “Live Free, Stay Clean” Championship.
Mrs. Musa, who described the program as “a vision fulfilled,” thanked her husband, the Chief of Defence Staff, for his constant encouragement and support, which she said has been instrumental to DEPOWA’s achievements.
“My beloved husband, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR — my crown, my king, my lord — thank you for your love, for standing by us, and for inspiring our children with your presence and words of encouragement,” she said.
She extended appreciation to school principals, coaches, technical officials, and volunteers for their dedication to grooming young athletes. She also commended facilitators and sponsors, including Live Free Consultancy Services, One Best Foundation, and health professionals who supported the event’s awareness campaign on mental health and drug-free living.
Mrs. Musa also acknowledged the inspiration of the First Lady, Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, whom she described as “Mother of the Nation” and a guiding influence for DEPOWA’s initiatives.
“Your words of wisdom and encouragement continue to strengthen our resolve to build a better society through compassion and service,” she said.
The DEPOWA President also praised the collaboration among sister associations — NAOWA, NOWA, NAFOWA, and POWA — and lauded the organizing committee led by Dr. Bukola Alade for their tireless efforts.
Addressing the students, Mrs. Musa encouraged them to carry the lessons of the championship into their daily lives. “Whether you won a medal or not, you are all champions,” she declared. “Let the message of this championship — Live Free, Stay Clean — remain in your hearts. Go forth as ambassadors of a healthy, active, and drug-free life.”
At the end of the “Live Free, Stay Clean” Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Championship, Army Day Secondary School became the Overall Winner of the competition.
The “Live Free, Stay Clean” Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Championship is a DEPOWA initiative designed to promote physical fitness, teamwork, and drug-free living among secondary school students. Over several weeks, the program featured sports competitions, mentorship sessions, and mental health awareness campaigns aimed at developing well-rounded and disciplined youths.
