- President Bola Tinubu called for African military cooperation at the opening of the second Africa Military Games
- The event emphasised the role of sports in fostering unity, discipline, and resilience among Africa’s armed forces
- The Games aimed to strengthen military partnerships and collective security efforts across Africa
President Bola Tinubu has appealed to the militaries of Africa to work together in overcoming security challenges and ensuring the continent’s stability as he officially opened the second edition of the Africa Military Games at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.
Stanley Nkwocha, the Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Media and Communication, shared details of the ceremony in a statement he issued on Wednesday, November 20 titled "President Tinubu: Time Has Come for African Military to Close Ranks."
Africa military games aim to strengthen ties
The Games, themed “Enhancing Military Cooperation in Africa through Sports,” brought back a tradition that was first initiated in Nairobi, Kenya, over 20 years ago.
The opening event featured a callisthenics routine, live performances, the raising of both the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa (OSMA) and Africa Military Games in Abuja (AMGA) flags, an oath-taking ceremony for athletes and officials, and the lighting of the game torch by the Vice President.
In his address, President Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, hailed the event as a historic platform for enhancing unity, camaraderie, and military cooperation across Africa.
Tinubu emphasises importance of cooperation for Africa’s Safety
The president pointed out that tackling security challenges requires collective efforts, as no single nation can do it alone.
“Our collective safety and the well-being of our people demand that we stand together, shoulder to shoulder, as one united Africa,” the President stated, emphasising the importance of the Games in bolstering Africa’s collective security efforts.
He further said, “This occasion is more than a gathering of extraordinary athletes; it is an undeniable reminder of the cooperation that binds the military institutions across our continent.
“Today, we reaffirm the promise of what we can achieve when we stand together—not just as neighbours, but as guardians of a continent that depends on your valour, sacrifices, and unyielding dedication.”
Tinubu honours military leaders for Africa military games revival
President Tinubu, reflecting on the game's legacy, praised the leadership of General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, and Major General M. Abdullahi, President of the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa, for their role in reviving the event.
The President highlighted the importance of sports in fostering physical fitness, discipline, and resilience among military personnel, as qualities essential for tackling Africa’s various security challenges.
“Sports not only keep us physically fit but also infuse core values such as integrity, excellence, and discipline.
“When our men and women are fit, they are better equipped to confront the challenges of their duties with resilience and confidence,” he stated.
The President also stressed the broader necessity of unity in responding to the continent’s security challenges, emphasising that, “The security challenges we face cannot be addressed through kinetic measures alone. We must deepen the friendships and partnerships that have long existed among us.
“As long as any nation within our shared geography remains under threat, none of us can declare our continent secure. Together, we will build a safer, stronger Africa,” Tinubu stated.
Prominent figures attend opening of Africa military games in Abuja
Gen. Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, explained in his earlier remarks that the second edition of the games is not merely about celebrating the physical prowess of military athletes but also about showcasing the enduring connection between the armed forces across Africa.
Major General Maikano Abdullahi, President of the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa, stated that hosting the second edition of the games in Nigeria fulfils the vision of OSMA's founding fathers, aiming to promote unity, friendship, and solidarity among Africa's armed forces.
The event saw the presence of numerous prominent figures, including the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, represented by Babajimi Benson, Chairman of the House Committee on Defence; Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission; Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, Acting Chief of Army Staff; Abubakar Badaru, Minister of Defence; Bello Matawalle, Minister of State for Defence; Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of Naval Staff; Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, Chief of Air Staff; heads of delegations from the participating countries, and various senior military officers.
I’m ready to take hard decisions to move Nigeria forward — Tinubu
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that President Bola Tinubu affirmed his commitment to making tough decisions necessary for Nigeria's progress.
He highlighted the discussions he had with Chinese leaders, including President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, as well as his participation in the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).