By Harriet Tornguvan -Abuja
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to promoting peace, unity, and youth empowerment through sports and other non-kinetic initiatives aimed at strengthening national cohesion.
In a statement made available to newsmen by the Director, Defence Information General Tukur Gusau, the CDS made this known during the Grand Finale of the CDS Peace and Unity Cup 2025 held in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State.
General Musa expressed profound satisfaction with the successful conclusion of the tournament, describing it as “a celebration of peace, unity, and development anchored on the shared belief that sports can be a bridge between communities and a catalyst for social transformation.
The CDS explained that the Peace and Unity Cup was conceived as part of the AFN’s non-kinetic strategy to complement ongoing military operations.
He emphasized that peace cannot be achieved through 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,” he said.
General Musa commended the high level of performance and discipline displayed by the participating teams and congratulated all the players, coaches, and officials for their sportsmanship.
Additionally, he remarked that the competition showcased the positive transformation of youths who might otherwise have been vulnerable to social vices or recruitment by criminal elements. “This is the kind of transformation we seek—where our youth become builders of peace rather than agents of conflict,” he added.
The CDS expressed appreciation to the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his commitment to national development and unity. He also thanked the Governor and good people of Kebbi State for their warmth and hospitality, as well as traditional institutions, security agencies, sponsors, and organizers from Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara States for their contributions to the success of the event.
General Musa specially commended the commanders and personnel of all security agencies in Kebbi State for their professionalism and continued partnership in maintaining peace and stability.
He acknowledged the roles of the GOC 8 Division, Commander Sector 2 Joint Task Force (Operation Hadarin Daji), and other service commanders present, for their dedication and support.
finally the CDS urged them to take the lessons of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance learned during the tournament into their daily lives, cautioning them against engaging in acts of criminality.
"Do not allow anyone to convince you to take part in crime. It does not pay. Once there is peace, there will be development.
"May the spirit of peace and solidarity continue to shine across Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara States, and indeed the entire nation,” he affirmed.
He further urged them to continue being ambassadors of peace in their homes, schools, and communities.
