The Defence Headquarters, DHQ, has reiterated the importance of physical fitness, discipline and endurance among military personnel following the successful conduct of its Second Half Defence Headquarters Route March 2026 in Abuja.
The exercise, held as part of efforts to promote the overall well-being of personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, brought together officers and personnel from various departments and units within the Defence Headquarters.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, the Director General of the Joint Doctrine and Warfare Centre, Major General AE Edet, congratulated participants on successfully completing the exercise.
Edet commended the personnel for their commitment, determination and enthusiasm, noting that regular physical exercise remains essential to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and achieving military professionalism.
“Physical fitness is a critical requirement for operational effectiveness, ” he said, adding that “personnel must remain physically and mentally prepared to discharge their responsibilities effectively.”
The senior military officer also encouraged participants to sustain the enthusiasm demonstrated during the route march by incorporating regular physical activities into their daily routines.
According to him, maintaining physical fitness goes beyond participating in organised military exercises, as it requires a consistent commitment to healthy living and personal discipline.
The route march also provided an opportunity for officers and personnel to interact, strengthen relationships and promote unity and camaraderie across the various departments and services within the Defence Headquarters.
The Defence Headquarters said the successful completion of the exercise further reflects its commitment to building a healthy, disciplined and combat-ready Armed Forces of Nigeria.
The statement was signed by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, and dated November 13, 2026.
