CDS splashes N10million on football tournament winners in Rivers

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, awarded a total of N10 million to winners of the maiden Under-15 Boys’ Football Tournament held at Sharks Stadium in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The Imo State Military team, crowned champions after defeating Edo State, received N5 million. The first runners-up pocketed N3 million, while Akwa Ibom, finishing second runners-up, took home N2 million.

Speaking at the closing ceremony on Saturday, General Oluyede emphasized that the tournament, which featured teams from South-South states, as well as Abia and Imo, was designed to foster unity, cooperation, and brotherhood among young people.

Represented by Rear Admiral Gideon Kachim, the CDS highlighted the urgent need to address insecurity and the rising abuse of banned substances among youths. He noted that sports serve as a powerful intervention to channel youthful energy positively.

“The weeklong competition showcased not only football skills but also discipline, resilience, teamwork, and respect,” Oluyede said, describing sports as a vital tool for character building among youths. He commended players, coaches, officials, parents, and organizers for their commitment, emphasizing that beyond trophies, participants gained life lessons that will shape their future.

The CDS further explained that the tournament aligns with his military strategic philosophy, which seeks to strengthen the Armed Forces of Nigeria through improved welfare, sound administration, and national development under a whole-of-government approach.

Oluyede urged participants to embrace the values of unity, discipline, and determination, while commending the Rivers State Government for co-sponsoring and hosting the event. He reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ commitment to initiatives that empower youths, strengthen communities, and contribute to national progress.

Declaring the tournament closed, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports, Emmanuel Ndah, lauded the championship as a significant grassroots initiative. He described it as a celebration of unity, teamwork, and the potential of Nigerian youths.

“At a time when our nation faces social and security challenges, sports provide a positive avenue for youth engagement, character development, and the cultivation of values essential for responsible citizenship,” Fubara said. He commended the Armed Forces for their sustained efforts in youth development through sports, mentorship, and education, and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to creating a safe and enabling environment for young Nigerians to thrive.

He concluded by congratulating all participants, winners, organizers, and supporters for making the tournament a resounding success.