CDS Commends DEPOWA’s Commitment To Youth Devt

The Chief of Defence Staff CDS, General Christopher Musa, has commended the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association DEPOWA for its commitment to youth development through sports, describing the initiative as a powerful tool for building discipline, patriotism, and national unity.

General Musa gave the commendation at the closing ceremony of the DEPOWA Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Championship held in Abuja, with the theme “Live Free, Stay Clean.”

Addressing participants as the Special Guest of Honour, the CDS said the championship transcended a contest of physical strength, noting that it represented a platform for nurturing values of teamwork, perseverance, and character among young Nigerians.

He emphasized the importance of early sports development, recalling that many global icons such as football star, Kylian Mbappé and basketball legend Hakeem Olajuwon began their journeys in secondary school competitions.

Reflecting on his own love for basketball, General Musa said the lessons of discipline, focus, and endurance he learned through sports had guided him throughout his military career.

He noted that sports not only promote physical well-being but also shape the moral and mental strength needed for leadership and service.

The CDS commended the DEPOWA President, Mrs. Oghogho Musa, for her visionary leadership and unwavering drive to promote grassroots sports, stressing that such efforts are critical to building a generation of morally upright and responsible citizens.

In her remarks, DEPOWA President, Mrs. Oghogho Musa, expressed gratitude to the CDS for his encouragement and active support throughout the championship.

She also appreciated the principals, coaches, referees, and facilitators for their dedication to the success of the event.

Mrs. Musa acknowledged the contributions of partners such as Live Free Consultancy Services, One Best Foundation, and mental-health experts who helped to drive the “Live Free, Stay Clean” campaign, a DEPOWA initiative promoting a healthy, drug-free lifestyle among students.

She also expressed appreciation to the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her motherly guidance and inspiration, as well as to the presidents of sister associations NAOWA, NOWA, NAFOWA, and POWA for their solidarity and support.

Highlights of the ceremony included the presentation of medals, cash prizes, and other valuable gifts to winners and participants.

Army Day Secondary School, Mambilla Barracks, emerged overall champion, clinching first place in both the male and female football categories, among other events.

The four-week event featured nine schools drawn from the military and paramilitary formations across the Federal Capital Territory.

Aisha Adesanya, Edited By Grace Namiji