The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has described the Under-15 Football Championship as a key component of the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s non-kinetic intervention strategy aimed at addressing insecurity, particularly in the South-South region as well as Imo and Abia states.
In a strategic move to curb youth-related crime and promote peace in the Niger Delta, the CDS on Monday evening launched the maiden edition of the Under-15 Boys Football Championship 2025 in Port Harcourt, with teams drawn from across the South-South.
Represented at the event by Rear Admiral Gideon Kachim, Oluyede explained that the six-day competition was designed to positively engage young people, discourage criminal tendencies and strengthen collaboration between security agencies and host communities.
He noted that sports remain a powerful tool for unity, discipline and early talent development, adding that sustained youth engagement is critical to long-term peace and stability in the region.
“This championship symbolises the spirit of teamwork, discipline and healthy competition that defines our great nation. It is a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to unity, social cohesion and national pride,” he said.
According to him, the tournament provides an avenue to deter future security challenges through cooperation with law-abiding citizens using a non-kinetic approach.
“This championship forms a critical part of the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s non-kinetic intervention efforts, especially in the South-South region,” the CDS affirmed.
He added that sports offer a platform to deepen engagement with youths, channel their energy toward excellence and steer them away from crime and other social vices.
“The Niger Delta region, like many parts of our nation, faces unique social and security challenges. While the Armed Forces continue to deploy both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies, initiatives such as this football competition are crucial in redirecting the energy, creativity and potential of our young population toward meaningful pursuits,” he said.
Oluyede emphasised that the Armed Forces would continue to work closely with state governments, development partners, sports organisations and community leaders to ensure sustained youth engagement and peace-building efforts nationwide.
He charged the participants to compete with the spirit of fair play, discipline and sportsmanship, while urging coaches and officials to uphold professionalism, fairness and integrity throughout the championship.
The CDS expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to youth empowerment and national security, and thanked the service chiefs, sister security agencies, community leaders, Greater Heights Global Sports Development Limited and the Rivers State Government for their support and co-sponsorship.
Earlier, the Director of Sports, Defence Headquarters, Air Vice Marshal Patrick Phillips, said sports transcend boundaries and unite people from diverse backgrounds.
“Sports teach teamwork, discipline and perseverance. The importance of fitness for our youths cannot be over-emphasised,” he said, noting that such competitions strengthen civil-military relations needed to address Nigeria’s security challenges.