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ABUJA – President Bola Tinubu has called on African militaries to strengthen their collaboration in addressing insecurity and other challenges threatening the continent’s stability.
Speaking during the opening ceremony of the second edition of the Africa Military Games (AMGA) on Wednesday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, emphasized the need for unity in tackling shared security issues.
“No single nation can address its security challenges in isolation,” Tinubu stated.
“Our collective safety and the well-being of our people demand that we stand together as one united Africa. Today’s event is not just about extraordinary athletes; it is a powerful reminder of the cooperation that binds our military institutions across this continent.”
The Africa Military Games, themed “Enhancing Military Cooperation in Africa through Sports,” is a revival of an initiative first launched over 20 years ago in Nairobi, Kenya.
The event aims to foster camaraderie, resilience, and discipline among military personnel while strengthening bonds across African nations.
President Tinubu commended Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the President of the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa (OSMA), Brigadier General Maikano Abdullahi, for their leadership in reviving the games.
“This historic platform not only promotes fitness and discipline but also reaffirms what we can achieve when we come together—not just as neighbors but as guardians of our shared continent,” Tinubu added.
In his address, General Musa described the Games as a celebration of the strength of African armed forces and their unity in diversity.
“These Games remind us of the power of cooperation and friendship,” Musa said.
He urged the 1,625 athletes and officials from 20 African nations to embody the spirit of sportsmanship throughout the competition.
Musa assured attendees that Nigeria’s Armed Forces would continue to enhance its partnerships with other militaries across Africa, emphasizing collective efforts to defend territorial integrity and promote regional stability.
Brigadier General Abdullahi highlighted the Games as the fulfillment of the vision of OSMA’s founding fathers.
He lauded President Tinubu’s commitment to hosting the Games, which showcase the rich cultural heritage and talent within African armed forces.
“This is more than a competition; it is a platform to reignite the bonds that unite us as brothers and sisters in arms,” Abdullahi remarked.
The opening ceremony featured a spectacular display of calisthenics, the hoisting of OSMA and AMGA flags, the lighting of the torch, and oath-taking by athletes.
Nigerian music stars, including Timi Dakolo, Yemi Alade, Olamide, and D’banj, thrilled the audience with electrifying performances, while a stunning fireworks display capped off the evening.
The Games, scheduled to run from November 18 to 30, will feature 20 sports events with participation from military contingents across the continent. Athletes and officials have been encouraged to compete fiercely but fairly, reflecting the spirit of African unity and resilience.
The Africa Military Games stand as a testament to the unifying power of sports in fostering collaboration, discipline, and mutual respect.
With this edition hosted in Nigeria, the Games reaffirm the critical role of military cooperation in safeguarding the future of a stable and prosperous Africa.
