The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has splashed N10m on winners of the maiden edition of the under 15 Boy’s football tournament hosted at the Sharks stadium, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The Imo Military team, which emerged champions of the tournament after the Edo State team, received N5m, while the 1st runners-up earned N3m and the Akwa Ibom state team, which finished as second runners-up, received N2m.
Speaking at the closing ceremony on Saturday, Oluyede said the tournament brought together teams from South-South states, Abia and Imo states, to foster unity, cooperation, and brotherhood among youths.
The CDS, who was represented by Rear Admiral Gideon Kachim, noted that insecurity and the rising abuse of banned substances among young people remained a serious national challenge, stressing the need for early intervention through constructive engagement with sports.
He said the competition aligned with his military strategic philosophy aimed at strengthening the Armed Forces of Nigeria through enhanced and improved welfare and sound administration, while contributing to national development under a whole-of-government approach.
Oluyede said the weeklong tournament showcased not only football skills, but also discipline, resilience, respect, and teamwork, describing sports as a vital tool for character development among youths.
He commended all participating teams, organisers, officials, coaches, and parents for their commitment, adding that beyond trophies, the players gained valuable life lessons and experiences that would shape their future
He said, “Some of the challenges facing our nation today include insecurity and increased use of banned substances that affect the youth, which must not be ignored.
“It is in the light of this, that I have committed myself to empowering the youths to meaningfully contribute to the development of our dear country Nigeria in line with my Military Strategic Philosophy for the Armed Forces of Nigeria which is to consolidate the capabilities of the Armed Forces of Nigeria through enhanced jointness for a reinforced operational posture, supported improved welfare efforts and sound administration aimed at ensuring the Armed Forces maintain its core military fundamentals of guaranteeing Nigeria’s sovereignty and prosperity under a whole of government approach”.
Oluyede urged the participants to imbibe the lessons from the tournament, stressing that unity, discipline, and determination are essential to success.
He commended the Rivers State Government for co-sponsoring and hosting the event, as well as all individuals and organisations that contributed to its success, including the participants.
Oluyede reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces to initiatives that empower youths, strengthen communities, and foster national development.
He said, “On behalf of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, I appreciate the Rivers State Government that co-sponsored and played host for the event, as well as others that contributed in one way or another.
“I also congratulate every participant and assure you that we will continue to support initiatives that empower our youths, strengthen our communities, and build a Nigeria we can all be proud of.”
Declaring the event closed, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Sports, Emmanuel Ndah, welcomed the young footballers, their coaches, parents, and supporters from across the country to the state.
Fubara described the championship as a significant grassroots football initiative that underscored a collective commitment to grooming disciplined, talented, and focused Nigerian youths.
According to the governor, the tournament was more than a sporting event, but a celebration of unity, teamwork, and the immense potential of young Nigerians.
He said, “Today’s event represents much more than football. It is a celebration of unity, teamwork, and the potential of our young people.
“At a time when our nation faces various social and security challenges, sports serve as a powerful non-kinetic tool to engage the youths positively, build character, and instill values that help shape responsible and patriotic citizens.
“Competitions like this teach discipline, resilience, fair play, and respect, attributes that are essential for personal growth and national development.”
He commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria for recognising the importance of physical fitness, mental alertness, and emotional stability in nation-building, and for sustaining its role in youth development through sports, mentorship, and education.
Fubara noted that the championship had provided a platform for young footballers to showcase their talents while learning essential life skills that would shape their future.
The governor reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring a safe, peaceful, and prosperous nation, stressing that efforts to tackle insecurity would continue to create an enabling environment for young Nigerians to grow, learn, and achieve their aspirations.
He expressed appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, for his vision, dedication, and unwavering support for youth development and grassroots sports.
He said, “As we draw this championship to a close today, let us strive to reflect the values of equality, unity, and excellence in our daily actions. We must continue to support our youth, as they form the bedrock of our current society and the leaders of tomorrow. In this context,
“I wish to extend my sincere congratulations to all participants, the winners, the organizers, and everyone whose contributions have played a vital role in the success of this exceptional competition.”
