In a remarkable declaration of the transformative power of sports in fostering unity and social cohesion, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, has hailed the Unity Schools Old Students Association (USOSA) Sports Carnival as a catalyst for promoting nationhood.
Amidst fierce competition and camaraderie, no fewer than 42 Unity colleges from across the nation converged to participate in 14 sports disciplines at this year’s carnival, igniting a fervor of patriotism and solidarity.
Addressing the press during the tee-off of the golf tournament at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Gen. Musa expressed his profound gratitude for his alma mater, Federal Government College, Sokoto, affirming that the Unity Schools had played a pivotal role in shaping his character and identity.
Reflecting on the significance of the event, Gen. Musa remarked, “It is a pleasure and a great privilege to be here. Federal Government College, Sokoto gave us the platform and the foundation that we are standing on, and together I can see the difference we are making all over the country and the world.”
Emphasizing the importance of revitalizing the Unity Schools, both in sports and education, Gen. Musa underscored the need to uphold the values and standards of these institutions.
Echoing his sentiments, the President-General of USOSA, Michael Magaji, highlighted the integration of the golf tournament into the carnival as a means to support the aging participants while fostering unity among USOSANS and non-USOSANS alike.
With the theme “Reigniting Unity in Diversity,” this year’s carnival aimed to bring together over 3,000 USOSANS and 2,000 non-USOSANS, showcasing the diversity and strength of Nigeria’s collective identity.
Ahmad Hussaini, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, shed light on the genesis of USOSA, emphasizing its noble mission to preserve the Unity Schools from potential privatization by the federal government.
As the USOSA Sports Carnival continues to evolve into a symbol of national pride and solidarity, it reaffirms the enduring spirit of unity that transcends geographical boundaries and celebrates the rich diversity of Nigeria’s cultural tapestry.
