Odita Sunday 
Defence Minister Bags ‘Ambassador of Fair Play’ Award, Pledges Support for Sports Development
The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa (retd.), has reiterated the commitment of the Ministry of Defence to the promotion of sports as a tool for national unity and youth empowerment.
The assurance followed his conferment with the “Ambassador of Fair Play” award by the All Federal Capital Territory Sports Association during a courtesy visit to the Ministry in Abuja.
The award was received on his behalf by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Richard Pheelangwa, who described the Minister as a passionate sports enthusiast and firm believer in the role of sports in fostering peace and cohesion.
“Gen. Musa is a sports lover and a firm believer in the enormous benefits of sports to national peace and unity. He enjoys and participates in various sporting activities, both indoors and outdoors, including golf. He will be glad to have the award and will always support sports activities,” Pheelangwa said.
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 strengthening collaboration with the Ministry to reposition sports in the Federal Capital Territory and beyond.
Dogara noted that the association seeks to elevate sports development to levels comparable with those in developed economies, where the sector contributes significantly to national growth.
He explained that promoting sports would help enhance economic independence, empower youths, and reduce social vices by curbing restiveness and criminality.
Representatives of various sporting bodies, including golf, softball/baseball, gymnastics and basketball, also called for the revival of sporting facilities in military barracks, noting that many talents are discovered in such structured environments.
Also present at the event was Mr. Maduka, Permanent Secretary, Special Duties, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, alongside other senior officials of the Ministry.
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