Abuja Barracks Games: Military reiterates commitment to youth development

… as Mogadishu wins women’s football competition

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has reiterated its commitment to youth development, describing sports as a strategic platform to unite young people across military barracks while promoting discipline, teamwork and excellence.

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, made the remarks while declaring open the 2026 Abuja Military Barracks Youth Championship on Tuesday at the Mogadishu Military Barracks, Abuja.

The CDS, who was represented by the Chief of Defence Civil-Military Relations, Rear Admiral Saburi Lawal, said the championship is more than a competition but a platform to strengthen unity, discipline and brotherhood among youths in the barracks.

ALSO READ: NVBF unveils Masajedi as Technical Adviser

“Through sports, we are building leaders, promoting excellence and creating opportunities for our young people to contribute meaningfully to national development,” the CDS stated.

In women’s football, Mogadishu Barracks claimed the title after defeating NAF Base Bill Clinton Barracks 4-2 on penalties after a thrilling 2-2 draw in regulation time. Earlier, NAF Valley secured third place by beating Nigerian Navy Barracks 3-0. In men’s category, Lungi Barracks defeated NAF Base Bill Clinton 5-0 before overcoming General Azazi Barracks 3-0. General Azazi also recorded a 5-0 victory over Nigerian Navy Barracks while Shittu Alao Barracks edged NAF Valley 2-0.

Volleyball produced more impressive performances as Lungi Barracks swept past Nigerian Navy Barracks and NAF Valley in both the men’s and women’s events. Mogadishu Barracks also recorded victories over General Azazi and Mambilla, while Mambilla defeated NAF Base Bill Clinton in both categories.

In basketball, NAF Valley defeated Shittu Alao Barracks 72-24 before edging Mambilla 39-30 in the men’s event. Nigerian Navy Barracks overcame Mambilla 41-27, while Mogadishu Barracks claimed a narrow 31-30 victory over General Azazi. In the women’s competition, General Azazi defeated Mogadishu 39-19 and later beat NAF Base Bill Clinton 60-30, while NAF Valley cruised to a commanding 67-19 victory over Mambilla.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Chief of Defence Administration, Rear Admiral Gideon Kachim, said the championship reflects the Chief of Defence Staff’s vision of using sports as a tool to positively engage young people and tackle youth restiveness.

“The challenges facing our youths today demand innovative solutions, and sports remains one of the most effective tools for empowerment, mentorship and character development. This championship reflects the commitment of the Chief of Defence Staff to investing in the future of our young people,” Rear Admiral Kachim said.

The five-day competition features football, volleyball and basketball among eight military barracks in the Federal Capital Territory with the aim to promote values of discipline, teamwork and camaraderie that defines the Armed Forces.