Physical Fitness Key to Combat Readiness, Defence Minister Tells Nigerian Armed Forces
Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa (retd. Gen.), has stressed that physical fitness remains central to combat readiness and operational effectiveness in the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Musa, who was represented by retired Rear Admiral Olu Bankole, made the remarks on Friday at the 2026 International Military Sports Council (CISM) Day celebration held at the Aguyi Ironsi Cantonment in Abuja.
“Physical fitness is not merely a routine requirement, but central to combat readiness and operational effectiveness,” the minister said.
“A physically prepared and well-trained officer is a key component of a professional Armed Forces, better positioned to respond swiftly to threats and adapt to the dynamic security environment.”
He added that sports play a critical role in instilling discipline, teamwork, endurance and leadership—values he described as indispensable in modern military operations.
Highlighting the relevance of the CISM motto, “Friendship through Sports,” Musa said it reflects how bonds built on sporting fields translate into trust and cooperation during multinational operations and peace support missions.
According to him, the annual CISM Day Run demonstrates the Armed Forces’ commitment to unity, friendship and peace, while also reinforcing public confidence in the military as a professional institution dedicated to national defence and positive social engagement.
He urged participants to strengthen bonds within their services, across security institutions and with international partners, while commending the Armed Forces for sustaining the global tradition of CISM Day.
The News Agency of Nigeria reported that the event brought together personnel from the Armed Forces and other security agencies, promoting inter-agency cooperation and unity. The programme featured a 5km walk and jog, organised by the Defence Headquarters in collaboration with CISM.
The Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede (Gen.), represented by Rear Admiral Gideon Kachim, said the Armed Forces were leveraging sports as a strategic tool for promoting physical fitness, discipline, combat readiness and international military cooperation.
He described CISM as a platform that fosters friendship and solidarity among armed forces worldwide, noting that sports provide a universal language for building trust and cooperation in a world facing complex security challenges.
“Physical fitness is foundational to operational readiness, and sporting activities enhance endurance, focus and team spirit essential for mission success,” Oluyede said, adding that cohesion built through shared training and competition strengthens operational effectiveness.
Speaking at the event, Abdulahi Maikano (Maj.-Gen.), Vice President of CISM and President of its African chapter, emphasised the importance of unity and cooperation among armed forces globally.
He noted that Nigeria joined CISM in 1977 and has since played a significant role in promoting friendship and sportsmanship among military personnel. He added that CISM, founded in 1947 by five countries, now has 187 member states, with Nigeria as an active participant.
Maikano also commended Nigeria’s contributions to the organisation, including the roles played by former Head of State Abdulsalami Abubakar, who previously served as a Chief Delegate to CISM.
He invited Nigerian athletes to participate in upcoming international military competitions, including the World Military Games in Colorado, USA, and praised AVM Patrick Philips, Nigeria’s Chief Delegate, for his role in organising the event.
The celebration concluded with the presentation of souvenirs to heads of the Armed Forces and other paramilitary agencies that participated in the annual CISM Day event, which is held every February.
