The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has successfully concluded the 2026 Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Democracy Day Volleyball Championship, reaffirmed the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s (AFN) commitment to operational fitness, jointness, and esprit de corps among personnel.
The championship, held at the Aguiyi Ironsi Indoor Sports Complex in Abuja as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebrations, brought together male and female volleyball teams from the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, and Nigerian Air Force in a display of sportsmanship, discipline, and healthy competition.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, commended participants, organisers, and officials for the successful conduct of the championship. He noted that the event underscored the importance of physical, mental, and emotional fitness in military service.
Represented by the Chief of Defence Civil-Military Relations, Rear Admiral Sabiru Lawal, the CDS described volleyball as a sport that promotes concentration, endurance, resilience, and teamwork qualities that are fundamental to effective military operations.
“The true value of this championship lies beyond medals and trophies. Its greatest achievements are the experiences shared, friendships forged, and the spirit of unity strengthened among our personnel,” he said.
General Oluyede congratulated the winning teams and encouraged all participants to remain committed to excellence, stressing that every competition presents opportunities for growth and improvement.
Earlier, while declaring the tournament open, the Chief of Defence Administration, Rear Admiral Gideon Kachim, described the event as a celebration of unity, professionalism, and camaraderie within the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
According to him, volleyball reflects the focus, discipline, teamwork, and mental strength expected of military personnel in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities. He added that sporting activities play a critical role in enhancing resilience, maintaining operational readiness, and discovering talents capable of representing both the AFN and Nigeria at national and international competitions.
At the end of the tournament, the Nigerian Navy emerged as the dominant force, clinching the championship titles in both the male and female categories. The Navy teams defeated their counterparts from other Services to win the coveted trophies and cash prizes.
The Service also swept the Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards in both categories, further underscoring its impressive performance throughout the competition.
The championship forms part of the Armed Forces’ broader efforts to promote jointness, strengthen inter-Service cooperation, and foster camaraderie among personnel. Observers noted that the high level of participation, keen competition, and esprit de corps displayed during the tournament reflected the successful achievement of these objectives.
The event concluded on a high note, reinforcing the AFN’s resolve to use sports as a tool for enhancing unity, fitness, and operational effectiveness across the Services.
