By Onwe Wisdom|Pan Afric Reporters
Birnin Kebbi, Nigeria – October 23, 2025
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR, has reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to promoting peace, unity, and youth empowerment through sports and other non-kinetic initiatives designed to strengthen national cohesion.
Speaking during the Grand Finale of the CDS Peace and Unity Cup 2025 held on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, General Musa according to a press release e-signed by Director, Defence Information Defence Headquarters, Abuja Brigadier General Tukur Gusau described the tournament 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 commended the efforts of the Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara States Planning Committee 2025, emphasizing that their collaboration showcased the strength of unity and collective responsibility in building a safer and more prosperous nation.
“The Peace and Unity Cup was conceived as part of the AFN’s non-kinetic strategy to complement ongoing military operations. Peace cannot be achieved through force of arms alone—it must be sustained through dialogue, inclusion, empowerment, and community engagement,” General Musa explained.
He highlighted that sports, particularly football, serve as a unifying platform that transcends ethnic, religious, and regional divides. “Sports 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 praised the high level of discipline and performance displayed by the participating teams, noting that the competition had transformed many youths who might otherwise have been vulnerable to social vices or criminal recruitment.
“This is the kind of transformation we seek—where our youth become builders of peace rather than agents of conflict,” he remarked.
The CDS also expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering commitment to national development and unity, and to the Governor and people of Kebbi State for their warmth and hospitality throughout the event. He equally acknowledged the roles played by traditional institutions, sponsors, security agencies, and the organizers from Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara States.
He particularly lauded the commanders and personnel of security agencies in Kebbi State for their professionalism and partnership in maintaining peace and stability. The CDS singled out the GOC 8 Division, the Commander Sector 2 Joint Task Force (Operation Hadarin Daji), and other service commanders for their dedication and support.
In a direct message to Nigerian youths, General Musa urged them to embrace the values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance cultivated during the tournament, warning them against being lured into crime.
“Do not allow anyone to convince you to take part in crime. It does not pay. Once there is peace, there will be development,” he cautioned.
The CDS concluded by calling on Nigerians to renew their collective resolve to build a country where unity thrives, diversity is celebrated, and young people are empowered to fulfill their potential.
“May the spirit of peace and solidarity continue to shine across Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara States, and indeed the entire nation,” he affirmed.
The event drew notable attendance, including the Governor of Kebbi State, members of the state executive council, senior military officers, and local government officials.
