As part of their continual efforts designed to optimize youth developmental progress in the country, the Chief of Defence Staff have briefed members of the press on their readiness to commence the second edition of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Democracy Day Under-18 Basketball Championship for boys and girls, scheduled to begin this Saturday, June 13th, 2025, in Abuja.
A pool of 16 teams drawn from the North Central region of Nigeria will be ready to compete for gallantry rewards, with invitations handed down to states from Kaduna, Niger, Nasarawa, Plateau and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to participate in the male and the female category of the championship.
Also invited are Academy teams, namely; Zuba, Suleja, Gilali, M2, TNT, N Youths, Apo Settlers amongst others.
With this year’s edition earmarked as “Encouraging Grassroot Basketball Talents,” the rationale according to the organizers is aimed at creating an enabling platform that will inspire, empower, and nurture young basketball talents across Nigeria, while promoting unity and peaceful coexistence.
At a press briefing held in Abuja on Wednesday, the Chairman of the Organising Committee, retired Brigadier-General Aliyu Abdullahi, noted that the championship is expected to have a positive and lasting impact on Nigerian youth.
He said the tournament is poised to discover, develop, and showcase young players for potential opportunities at national and international levels.
General Abdullahi highlighted that the initiative, championed by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR, forms part of his non-kinetic strategy to enhance national security and civil-military relations by engaging youth in meaningful, community-building activities.
“The CDS understands the critical role of Nigeria’s young, vibrant population in national development,” he said. “This tournament is not only about basketball; it’s about promoting peace, inclusion, discipline, and unity through sport.”
Unlike the maiden edition, this year’s championship will feature both male and female teams, reflecting the CDS’s commitment to gender inclusion and equality in youth development programs.
“This event promises top-tier basketball action, fun-filled activities, and the chance for young players to win medals, trophies, and other prizes,” Brig.-Gen. Abdullahi added.
“Beyond competition, the championship offers a unique platform for cultural exchange, friendship, and national bonding among young athletes.”
To ensure transparency and credibility, the National Identification Number (NIN) will be used to verify player eligibility and eliminate age fraud. All games will be officiated in accordance with FIBA rules, ensuring professionalism and fairness throughout the tournament.
In addition to the games, the organizers revealed that the event will feature various side attractions, creating a festive and engaging atmosphere for athletes, officials, and spectators alike.
The CDS Democracy Day Under-18 Basketball Championship continues to serve as a beacon of hope and opportunity for Nigeria’s youth, using sports as a powerful tool for national growth and cohesion.
The week-long tournament will run from June 13 to 18, 2025, at Package B of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
16 Teams Confirmed To Participate in 2nd Edition of CDS Democracy Day Basketball Championship
Pius Idoko is a seasoned sports broadcaster with experience across TV, radio, print, and online media. He is the Publisher of The Continental News and currently serves as the Media Officer for Nigeria’s U13, U15, and U16 teams, as well as the official stadium announcer for all national teams under the NFF.
His career includes roles at Aso Radio/TV, Brila FM, and Cool/Wazobia/Nigeria Info FM, where he excelled as a sports presenter and football commentator. An award-winning journalist, he was recognized for excellence at the 2019 Dreamland Embassy of Hungary Cup.
Pius is also a voice-over artist who enjoys reading and singing.
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