The Chief of Defense Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, has emphasized that the upcoming Africa Military Games, scheduled to take place from November 8 to 30, 2024, in Abuja, will play a vital role in fostering military cooperation and partnership across Africa. Speaking at a world press conference in Abuja on Thursday, Gen. Musa highlighted the event as an opportunity for the Nigerian Armed Forces to showcase their skills and strengthen relationships with their counterparts from other African nations.
Gen. Musa described the Africa Military Games as a strategic initiative that aligns with Nigeria’s military objectives, particularly in promoting peace, security, and camaraderie through non-kinetic operations. According to him, the event is a testament to Nigeria’s dedication to regional stability and demonstrates the country’s capability as a host nation for such prestigious events.
“The Africa Military Games will not only provide our Armed Forces with an international platform to compete but also foster the exchange of best practices among military personnel across the continent,” said Gen. Musa. “It will help build lasting relationships that contribute to the security and stability of Africa.”
The CDS assured that preparations for the games are in their final stages, with the Nigerian military working to ensure that all necessary infrastructure and logistics are in place to host the event smoothly. He expressed confidence that the Nigerian Armed Forces will excel both on and off the field during the competition.
In his remarks, Gen. Musa thanked the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Mr. Nyesom Wike, for his support in hosting the games, which he noted would bring significant economic and social benefits to both Abuja and the nation. The CDS also called on Nigerians and corporate organizations to show their support for the Armed Forces and to join in celebrating the spirit of sportsmanship and unity embodied by the games.
“Let us come together to ensure a successful event and showcase the hospitality Nigerians are known for. This is a moment to celebrate unity and cooperation through sports,” Gen. Musa urged.
The Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Abidemi Marquis, elaborated on the theme of the event, “Enhancing Military Cooperation in Africa through Sports.” He pointed out that 42 African countries have expressed interest in participating, with 27 countries already submitting their final entries. The games will feature 19 sporting events, including swimming, taekwondo, wrestling, and various ball games.
Maj.-Gen. Maikano Abdullahi, President of Military Sports in Africa, reiterated the purpose of the games, which is to shift the focus of African military personnel from the battlefield to the sports field. “This initiative is about fostering peace, stability, and understanding among the armed forces of the 44 participating African nations,” Abdullahi stated.
The FCT Minister, Mr. Nyesom Wike, also expressed his gratitude to the CDS for choosing Abuja as the host city. He emphasized that the 3,000 participants expected at the games will serve as ambassadors who will share the message that Abuja is a world-class city and that Nigeria is progressing.
