By Harriet Tornguvan
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd.), has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to promoting sports development as a tool for national unity and youth empowerment following his recognition with the prestigious Ambassador of Fair Play award.
The honour was conferred by the All Federal Capital Territory Sports Association during a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Defence in Abuja, in recognition of the minister’s contributions to sports development and advocacy for fair competition.
Receiving the award on behalf of the minister, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Richard Pheelangwa, described General Musa as a passionate sports enthusiast who firmly believes in the role of sports in fostering peace, unity and national cohesion.
According to him, the minister actively participates in various sporting activities, both indoor and outdoor, including golf, and remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote sports across the country.
“He is a sports lover and a strong believer in the enormous benefits of sports to national peace and unity. He will be delighted to receive this award and will continue to support sporting activities, Pheelangwa said.
Earlier in his remarks, the Board of Trustees Chairman of the All Federal Capital Territory Sports Association and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, said the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration with the Ministry of Defence to reposition sports development, beginning with the Federal Capital Territory.
Dogara noted that the association seeks to harness sports as a viable platform for economic empowerment, youth engagement and the reduction of social vices, adding that structured sports programmes could help curb restiveness and promote lasting peace in the country.
He explained that the initiative aligns with global best practices where sports contribute significantly to economic growth and social stability in developed economies.
Representatives from various sporting bodies, including golf, softball/baseball, gymnastics and basketball associations, also used the occasion to advocate the revitalisation of sporting facilities within military barracks. They observed that barracks environments have historically served as organised centres for discovering and nurturing sporting talents.
The event was attended by senior government officials, including the Permanent Secretary, Special Duties, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Maduka, alongside directors and staff of the Ministry of Defence.
The recognition underscores growing collaboration between government institutions and sports stakeholders aimed at leveraging athletics as a catalyst for national development and social harmony.
