Physical fitness central to combat readiness, operational effectiveness- Defence minister

By Isaac Aregbesola

The Minister of Defence, retired Gen. Christopher Musa, has emphasised that physical fitness is central to combat readiness and operational effectiveness in the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Musa, represented by retired Rear Admiral Olu Bankole, said this on Friday in his remarks at the 2026 celebration of the International Military Sports Council (CISM) Day, at the Aguyi Ironsi Cantonment, Abuja.

“Physical fitness is not merely a routine requirement, but central to combat readiness and operational effectiveness.

“A physically prepared and well-trained officer is a key component of well-trained Armed Forces, better positioned to respond swiftly to threats and adapt to the dynamic security environment.

“Sports also instill discipline, teamwork, endurance, and leadership, guidelines that are indisputable in modern military operations,” he said.

While highlighting the Nigerian military’s focus on building a professional and resilient force, the minister observed that the CISM motto – “Friendship through Sports,” is timely.

According to him, it reminds us that bonds built on the sporting field translate into trust and cooperation in multinational operations and peace support missions.

“The CISM Day Run demonstrates the Armed Forces’ commitment to promoting unity, friendship, and peace through sports.

“The event reinforces public confidence in the military as a professional institution committed to national defence and positive social engagement.”

Musa urged participants to strengthen bonds within their services, across security institutions, and with international partners.

He commended the Armed Forces for sustaining the global tradition of CISM Day.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event brought together personnel from the Armed Forces and other security agencies, promoting inter-agency cooperation and unity.

The 5km walk and jog exercise was organised by the Defence Headquarters in collaboration with CISM.

The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, in his remarks said that the Nigerian Armed Forces was leveraging sports as a strategic instrument for promoting physical fitness, combat readiness, discipline, and international military cooperation.

Oluyede, represented by Rear Admiral Gideon Kachim, said the CISM, established to foster friendship and solidarity among armed forces worldwide, has been a platform for promoting unity and cooperation.

According to him, the CISM Day Run demonstrates the Armed Forces’ commitment to the noble principle of friendship through sports.

He said that in a world confronted by multifaceted security challenges, cooperation, trust, and solidarity were crucial, and sports offered a universal language for building bridges.

“Physical fitness is foundational to operational readiness, and sporting activities enhance endurance, focus, and team spirit essential for mission success.

“The nature of contemporary warfare and security operations demands personnel who are physically resilient, mentally alert, and emotionally balanced.

“A force that trains together, runs together, and competes together builds the cohesion necessary to fight and win together, ” he said.

Speaking, Maj.-Gen. Abdulahi Maikano, Vice President of the International Military Sport Council (CISM) and President of the African chapter, emphasised the importance of unity and cooperation among armed forces worldwide.

He noted that the CISM International Day of Military Sports 2026 aimed to promote sportsmanship, camaraderie, and cooperation among military personnel worldwide.

Maikano highlighted Nigeria’s contributions to the organisation, noting that the country joined CISM in 1977 and had since played a significant role in promoting friendship and sportsmanship among military personnel.

The CISM Vice President expressed pride in Nigeria’s hosting of the Vice Presidency and Presidency of Africa, saying “I’m the Vice President of the world and the African President.”

“The CISM, founded in 1947 by five countries, now boasts 187 member countries, with Nigeria being an active participant.

“The organisation’s motto, ‘Friendship through Sports’ underscores its commitment to promoting peace and unity among nations,” he said.

Maikano praised the Nigerian Chief Delegate, AVM Patrick Philips, for his efforts in organising the event.

According to him, Nigeria has produced notable leaders in CISM, including former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, who served as a Chief Delegate.

Maikano used the platform to invite Nigerian athletes to participate in upcoming international military competitions, including the World Military Games in Colorado, USA.

The event featured presentation of souvenirs to the heads of Armed Forces and other paramilitary agencies that participated in the annual event that comes up every February.(NAN)