Steven Joshua, Deborah Pam Triumph in Armed Forces, Security Agencies Marathon (Photos)
Aysha S Rabo
In a remarkable display of endurance and dedication, Steven Joshua from the Federal Fire Service and Deborah Pam from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) emerged victorious in the Defence Marathon.
The event, which witnessed fierce competition, saw Steven Joshua and Deborah Pam securing the top positions in the men’s and women’s categories, respectively.
Steven Joshua, representing the Federal Fire Service, expressed his gratitude to God for the triumph.
“I really thank God for this training, and I am very, very happy. I am so excited for winning the marathon, and I put a lot to see that I win this marathon,” he shared. Joshua highlighted the rigorous training regimen he undertook, working tirelessly day and night to secure his victory.
“Since the day they announced the Armed Forces Marathon, I started working on it, and I won it. I really thank God for the strength,” he added.
Deborah Pam of the NSCDC, who claimed the first position in the female category, said. “I am excited because I am the champion of this marathon. Since they started the Armed Forces Marathon, I have been the one winning it,” she joyfully exclaimed. Pam acknowledged the support from her husband, emphasizing the role he played in designing her training program. “I give my husband his respect because without him, I would not be able to perform as it is,” she expressed.
Reflecting on the drive behind their success, both athletes emphasized discipline, faithfulness to the program, and unwavering commitment to their training. When questioned about the absence of her husband in this particular event, Deborah Pam clarified that he was not in the best of health.
Deborah Pam, who has consistently excelled in international relays, expressed her joy and gratitude for maintaining her position as the marathon champion. “I give God the glory for keeping me alive. Many wish to see this but they couldn’t, like my colleague who won it last edition; she is late now,” Pam remarked.
In closing, the champions thanked their sponsors for providing the necessary support, including training opportunities and resources. “While we thank God for the privilege given to us, we also thank our sponsors as well for without them, we won’t be here.” Deborah Pam, who is in the rank of an Inspector, concluded.
The 2023 champions have not only brought glory to their respective agencies but have also exemplified the resilience and determination needed to excel in competitive sports. The duo, will each go home with a brand-new car.
Speaking at the award ceremony, Chief of Defence Staff, CG Musa, who started his remarks by requesting that a minute silence be observed in honour of victims of the Bini Biri tragedy, said “it is my pleasure to welcome you to the fourth edition of the Armed Forces and Security Agencies Half Marathon 2023 which was designed to reinforce the existing relationship between the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies. This event is no doubt coming at a time when the relationship of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agency are alternately required to work together to resolve the security challenges facing our dear country.”
The Defence chief stated further that the ability of sport and friendly competition to foster this desired relationship cannot be overemphasised. “Our nation will be ultimate beneficiaries of initiatives like this and the Defence headquarter under my watch will do whatever it takes to restore Nigeria’s glorious days in sports,” he added.
Steven Joshua, Deborah Pam Triumph in Armed Forces, Security Agencies Marathon (Photos)