Defence chief Christopher Musa has praised the competition among teams at the ongoing Chief of Defence Staff Unity Basketball Championship in Lagos.

He attended the games at the National Stadium Indoor Sports Hall with the special guest of honour, Henry Tafida, commander of the Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps.

Mr Musa commended the players’ discipline and enthusiasm, noting their effort, dedication, and determination reflect the qualities Nigerian youths bring into any pursuit they commit to.

He stressed that Nigeria’s youth, the nation’s largest demographic, continue to influence national progress through their energy, creativity, and global achievements, particularly in sports.

Also, Mr Tafida said the chief of defence staff values sports initiatives, adding that the championship would attract even wider youth participation in its second edition.

He linked the effort to Mr Musa’s vision of involving all sectors of society in nation-building, saying the competition would help channel youth energy positively.

Martins Obiora Enendu, former deputy commandant of NAFRC, also described the event as a laudable innovation that instils discipline and teamwork in young people.

He emphasised that sports provide constructive engagement for youth and help instil virtues needed to strengthen society and build national development.

The championship, which started on September 30, features 12 teams from south-west states, alongside guest teams from Edo and Delta, and ends on October 5.

The overall winners will receive ₦2 million, while the first and second runners-up will take home ₦1.5 million and ₦1 million, respectively.

(NAN)