CDS To Host 270 Basketballers, 40 Other Veterans To Commemorate Democracy Day

The Chief of Defence Staff, Lieut.-Gen. Christopher Musa is set to host a basketball tournament featuring 270 basketballers and 40 other veterans to commemorate this year’s Democracy Day.

The three-day event scheduled for June 9-12 will be held at the Monoliza Abuja Sport and Recreation in Garki, Abuja.

Speaking during a press briefing on Tuesday, the chairman of the organising committee, Brig.-Gen. Aliu Abdullahi (Rtd) noted that the maiden championship would feature both the male and female categories 10 male and four female teams, drawn from within Abuja and other states.

Abdullahi said that the tournament, with monetary value, is in line with the CDS’s philosophy of using a non-kinetic approach as a viable tool for peace and national security.

The championship also expected to feature veterans on June 12, will give prospective basketballers a levelling ground to network and be mentored by seasoned professionals to enable future participation in competitions at home and abroad.

He said, “The championship intends to promote sportsmanship amongst youths, cooperation and collaboration between security agencies and the civil populace. It is also a way of promoting peace and national integration.

“The sports fiesta is also a way of engaging the youth during the period of the event to keep them away from crime.”

Speaking on the impact of military sports on Nigeria, the President Organisation of Military Sports in Africa, Maj.-Gen. M Abdullahi said the nation is set to host the Africa Military Games in November, with about 3000 sportsmen and women participating in the championship.

“Bringing 3000 military personnel to Nigeria comes with many benefits to the country including economic benefit hosting the event,” he said.

On his part, the Defence Director of Sports, Air Vice Marshal, Abidemi Marquis while emphasising the benefit of military sport for the nation, recalled that on February 24, the nation had hosted the General Assembly of African Sport, featuring 32 nations and that according to him gave the country visibility.

“In terms of assurance of security, 32 nations were in Nigeria, and there was no security bridge. All of these painted the nation in a good light to Nigeria; Our participation and hosting of these international sporting activities is a plus for Nigeria.

“By November when the competition will start, it will be Africa focusing on Nigeria, projecting us as a nation capable of mobilising people for a good course.”