The Nigerian Army has emerged as the winner of the 2026 CDS Independence Day military badminton championship, which was held on October 1 at the Indoor Hall of the Mambilla Barracks, Abuja.
At the end of the competition, the Nigerian Army won with eight medals, comprising three gold, one silver and four bronze medals; the Nigerian Air Force occupied the second position with two medals, one gold and one silver, while the Nigerian Navy placed third with two bronze medals.
In the men’s singles final, Lance Corporal Kayode Oyeniran of the Nigerian Army won the gold medal, defeating Private Kelvin Daso, also of the Nigerian Army, who won silver. Likewise, Private Daniel Nudamajo and Staff Sergeant Suleman Ayuba, both of the Nigerian Army, took the bronze medals to complete a clean sweep.
In the women’s singles event, Corporal Caroline Adaji of the Nigerian Army won the gold medal; Lance Corporal Nancy Naomi of the Nigerian Air Force won silver, while Sergeant Suleman Ayuba of the Nigerian Army and Master Warrant Officer Okoji of the Nigerian Navy won bronze medals.
Speaking at the end of the competition, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, commended the participants for displaying spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie, which he said is the trademark of the Nigerian military.
Represented by the Chief of Defence Administration, Rear Admiral GJ Kachim, the CDS said the competition reflected the core values of the military and also made the competitors keep fit physically, mentally and emotionally for the challenges ahead.
The military chief stated that:
“We have not only witnessed the exceptional talent and precision of our outstanding competitors but also the camaraderie and sportsmanship that reflect the core values upheld by our armed forces.
Badminton extends beyond a mere sport; it embodies a discipline that necessitates concentration, perseverance and fortitude, with each player not just engaging in smashing for points but also embodying the fundamental values esteemed in our military service: accuracy, resolve and an unwavering quest for advancement.
This competition is not only apt but also involves solving challenges through kinetic means.
It’s mandatory that men and women of our armed forces keep fit physically, mentally and emotionally to cope with the enormous demands and challenges of our values as well as the aspirations of our great nation.
Even more important is that an event of this nature is being organised to improve smashing, proper grilling, agile footwork and precise shot execution, as well as service delivery. Because it’s when personnel are fit that effective service delivery can be assured.”
The highlight of the 2026 CDS Independence Day event was the presentation of trophies, medals and cash awards to the winners. While the gold medallists got a ₦400,000 cash prize each, the silver and bronze medallists received a ₦300,000 cash prize and a ₦200,000 cash prize, respectively.
