By George Ozalla
The Honourable Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd.) OFR, has assured of his continued support for sporting activities across the country as he received the prestigious and globally recognised Ambassador of Fair Play award from the All Federal Capital Territory Sports Association.
The honour was conferred during a courtesy visit by the Association to the Ministry of Defence in Abuja. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Richard Pheelangwa, received the award on behalf of the Minister alongside principal officers of the ministry.
In his remarks, Mr Pheelangwa described the Defence Minister as a passionate sports enthusiast and firm believer in the unifying power of athletics. He noted that Gen. Musa actively participates in various sporting activities, both indoor and outdoor, including golf, and consistently promotes sports as a tool for national peace and cohesion. He said the Minister would be delighted by the recognition and remains committed to supporting sporting initiatives.
Earlier, the delegation of the All Federal Capital Territory Sports Association, led by its Board of Trustees Chairman and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, said the visit was aimed at fostering collaboration with the Ministry of Defence to reposition sports development, beginning with the Federal Capital Territory.
According to a press statement signed by Enderline Chukwu, Deputy Director, Information and Public Relations, for the Director of Information and Public Relations, the Association expressed its determination to elevate sports to a level where it can meaningfully contribute to national development, similar to what obtains in developed economies.
The Association stated that promoting sports would not only enhance economic opportunities but also empower young people and reduce restiveness, thereby lowering crime rates and strengthening peace and stability in the country.
Representatives of various sporting disciplines, including golf, softball and baseball, gymnastics and basketball, also used the occasion to advocate for the revitalisation of sporting facilities within military barracks. They observed that many sporting talents are discovered and nurtured within the organised environment of the barracks, making them strategic hubs for structured talent development.
Also present at the event was the Permanent Secretary, Special Duties, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr Maduka, alongside senior officials of the Ministry of Defence.
The Ambassador of Fair Play award is regarded as a recognition of commitment to integrity, discipline and support for the growth of sports, values widely associated with national unity and development.
