SPECIAL REPORT
By Olayemi Esan
The spirit of unity, resilience, and excellence took center stage at the 4th Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Unity Basketball Championship, which concluded on Sunday with a thrilling finale that kept fans on their feet.
At the packed Indoor Sports Hall, Lagos, basketball lovers witnessed Hoops and Read edge out a formidable Police Baton side 55–52 in a nail-biting encounter that sealed their reputation as one of Nigeria’s finest basketball teams.
A Week of Passion, Purpose, and Patriotism
The week-long championship featured 12 elite basketball teams from the South-West, showcasing not only the growing popularity of the sport but also the power of sports diplomacy in building national cohesion.
From Lagos to Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti, the tournament drew passionate supporters and top-tier athletes, all united under one banner — national unity through sports.
The event was held to commemorate Nigeria’s Independence Day celebrations, reinforcing the military’s commitment to non-kinetic efforts in fostering peace, stability, and youth development.
The Final Showdown: Hoops and Read Rise to the Occasion
After a 12–12 deadlock in the opening quarter, Hoops and Read took control with superior teamwork and defensive precision. Their strong second-quarter run of 17–8 and third-quarter edge of 14–9 left Police Baton playing catch-up.
Despite a spirited final-quarter rally by Police Baton, led by veteran Kayode Balogun, the margin proved insurmountable.
“We knew it wouldn’t be an easy match,” said Coach Dossou Mensah of Hoops and Read. “Police Baton have experience and energy, but our discipline and composure made the difference.”
On the other hand, Police Baton’s coach, Jonathan Odia, lamented the officiating, describing it as “inconsistent,” though he praised his team’s fighting spirit till the final whistle.
Bronze Battle and Big Rewards
The third-place match saw Oluyole Warriors overpower Delta Force of Warri 68–55 in a fast-paced and entertaining contest, earning them a place on the podium.
The top three teams received cash prizes of ₦2 million, ₦1.5 million, and ₦1 million, respectively — a testament to the growing investment in grassroots and semi-professional basketball in Nigeria.
CDS General Musa: “Sports as a Weapon of Unity”
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, praised the players for their commitment, sportsmanship, and display of national character.
“The past few days have showcased our strength and perseverance as a people,” General Musa said. “This event reaffirms our collective spirit and demonstrates how sports can foster national security and unity through a non-kinetic approach.”
He added that the championship aligns with the Armed Forces’ broader strategy of engaging youth and communities through peaceful means, building bridges that transcend regional, ethnic, and social divides.
More Than a Game
Beyond the trophies and prize money, the 4th CDS Unity Basketball Championship stood as a symbol of Nigeria’s resilience and togetherness. It celebrated not only athletic excellence but also the enduring truth that, in unity — both on and off the court — lies the nation’s greatest strength.
As the final whistle blew and the champions lifted their trophy, one message echoed through the crowd:
“In every bounce, in every shot, in every victory — we play for Nigeria.”
