The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, on Sunday, said that it is mandatory for the men and women of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to keep fit physically, mentally, and emotionally to cope with the enormous demands and challenges of upholding military values and aspirations of the nation.
General Musa, who made this statement during the closing ceremony of the First Edition of the CDS Armed Forces Inter-Service Archery Competition 2025, also stressed that maintaining fitness will help them defeat terrorism and other emerging security threats. He added that the Inter-Service Archery Competition serves as a trial and selection process for the Armed Forces of Nigeria team for forthcoming Archery Championships both within and outside the country.
Represented by the Chief of Defence Policy and Plans (CDPP), Air Vice Marshal Sayo Olatunde, the CDS noted that, given the various security challenges facing the country, the timing of the competition is not only apt but also key to addressing these challenges through non-kinetic means.
According to him, “Even more important is the fact that an event of this nature is being organised to improve marksmanship, inculcate core values of integrity, precision, intensity, innovation, and excellence, as well as enhance service delivery, because it is when personnel are fit that effective service delivery can be assured. Over the past few days, we have not only witnessed the exceptional talent and precision of our outstanding competitors but also the camaraderie and sportsmanship that reflect the core values upheld by our armed forces.”
Archery, he said, extends beyond a mere sport; it embodies a discipline that necessitates concentration, perseverance, and fortitude. Musa stressed that with each archer’s approach to the firing line, they engage not only in targeting a mark but also in embodying the fundamental values esteemed in military service, namely accuracy, resolve, and an unwavering quest for advancement.
He stated that these principles resonate in both the realm of athletics and the everyday responsibilities they uphold as protectors of the nation.
Congratulating the medalists on their success, General Musa said, “Your diligence and resilience have culminated in remarkable achievements, reflecting your outstanding talent and commitment.”
The Director of Sports, Air Vice Marshal Nanjul Kumzhi, said the championship highlighted not only the exceptional skills and accuracy of the archers but also the profound sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship that epitomises the armed forces.
Noting that a total of 60 participants, drawn from the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, and Nigerian Air Force, participated in the competition, Kumzhi stated that the purpose was to select the Armed Forces of Nigeria team that would feature in forthcoming Archery Championships both within and outside the country.
At the end of the competition, the Nigerian Army topped the medal table with 20 medals, followed by the Nigerian Navy with 14 medals, and the Nigerian Air Force came third with 13 medals. A breakdown of the medals is as follows: the Nigerian Army won 14 gold, three silver, and three bronze medals. The Nigerian Navy won one gold, six silver, and seven bronze medals, while the Nigerian Air Force won zero gold, six silver, and seven bronze medals.
Linus Aleke
Follow us on:
