President Bola Tinubu has urged African militaries to collaborate in addressing the continent’s security challenges and threats to unity. Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu made this call during the official opening of the second edition of the Africa Military Games at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.
Themed “Enhancing Military Cooperation in Africa through Sports,” the event revives a tradition first introduced over 20 years ago in Nairobi, Kenya. Tinubu highlighted the critical role of unity in tackling Africa’s diverse security issues, emphasizing that no single nation can succeed in isolation.
“Our collective safety and the well-being of our people demand that we stand together as one united Africa,” he stated. The president also noted that the Games symbolize more than athletic competition, describing them as a platform to foster camaraderie, cooperation, and shared responsibility among Africa’s armed forces.
Reflecting on the significance of the event, Tinubu commended General Christopher Musa, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, and Major General Maikano Abdullahi, President of the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa (OSMA), for their efforts in reviving the Games. He also underscored the importance of sports in fostering physical fitness, discipline, and resilience—qualities essential for effective military operations.
“Sports not only ensure physical readiness but also instill values such as integrity and discipline, which are vital for addressing security challenges,” Tinubu remarked.
General Musa, in his address, described the Games as a celebration of unity and an opportunity to showcase the strong bonds among Africa’s armed forces. He urged the 1,625 athletes and officials from participating nations to embrace sportsmanship while competing in various events.
Maj. Gen. Abdullahi highlighted the Games’ vision of promoting unity, friendship, and solidarity among Africa’s armed forces, a goal aligned with the founding objectives of OSMA. He called on participants to compete fairly and foster deeper bonds of cooperation.
The opening ceremony featured an array of performances, including callisthenics, artistic displays, the hoisting of OSMA and AMGA flags, an oath-taking ceremony, and the symbolic lighting of the Games’ torch by Vice President Shettima.
Prominent attendees included Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas (represented by Babajimi Benson), Minister of Defence Abubakar Badaru, Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle, and senior military officers from across Africa. The event marked a moment of celebration and reaffirmed Africa’s commitment to unity and shared security goals.
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