Lungi Barracks Emerge Champions As Abuja Military Youth Games End

Lungi Barracks Emerge Champions As Abuja Military Youth Games End 

Arinzechi Chukwunonso 

Lungi Barracks emerged overall champions as the curtains came down on the 2026 Chief of Defence Staff Abuja Military Barracks Youth Sports Championship, in a thrilling celebration of talent, discipline, unity and youthful excellence.

After five days of intense competition across basketball, volleyball and football, Lungi Barracks finished top of the medals table with two gold, two silver and one bronze medal. Mogadishu Cantonment placed second with two gold, one silver and one bronze, while NAF Valley Base finished third with one gold and one bronze.

The championship, organised by Defence Headquarters, brought together eight barracks in Abuja from August 3 to 7, with competitions staged at the Mogadishu Cantonment Sports Complex and Aguiyi Ironsi Sports Complex.

The final day provided a fitting climax, as Mambilla Barracks defeated Lungi Barracks 4–2 on penalties after a goalless draw in regulation time to claim the men’s football title.

In the other events, NAF Valley Base won the women’s basketball title, while Lungi Barracks emerged champions in men’s basketball and women’s volleyball. Mogadishu Cantonment secured the men’s volleyball and women’s football titles.

Cash prizes of ₦300,000, ₦200,000 and ₦100,000 were presented to winners, runners-up and third-place finishers respectively, with trophies and plaques also awarded to outstanding teams and athletes.

Speaking through Air Vice Marshal Tony Ndace, Managing Director of Defence Holdings, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, described the championship as more than a sporting contest, stressing its role in building character and empowering young Nigerians.

“Sports are not just about competition; they are about character. Every jump, every pass, every spike and every cheer reminds us that the spirit of teamwork and camaraderie runs deep within our barracks.”

The CDS also delivered a powerful message to participants who did not finish with medals, reminding them that the greatest reward lies beyond the podium.

“Whether you carry home a trophy today or not, you have all won something far greater—the confidence to strive, the courage to compete and the experience that will shape your future.”

Representing the participating athletes, Fredricks Marcus expressed appreciation to the Defence Headquarters, organisers, coaches, parents, mentors and supporters for creating a platform where young talents could grow.

“Whether we won or lost, we all came out as champions. This championship has shown us that true victory is not only measured by medals, but by the courage to compete, the discipline to improve and the friendships we build.”

Marcus also praised the coaches and mentors for their guidance, saying their support had helped shape the athletes both on and off the field.

The championship ended on a message of hope, with the CDS reaffirming the Armed Forces’ commitment to youth development and promising continued support for initiatives that strengthen communities and build a better Nigeria. 

And as the final whistle faded at the barracks, the medals told one story—but the young athletes left with something far more enduring: confidence, discipline, friendship and the belief that their best days are still ahead.