Nigeria's President Declares 2nd African Military Games Open, Call on African Nations To Unite In Addressing Security Threats to Common Existence

Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu has declared the 2024 Africa Military Games Open In Abuja Nigeria's Capital calling on Militaries across Africa to unite in addressing insecurity and other threats to the continent's unity and stability. 

Nigeria's is hosting thee second edition of the games marking a revival of the tradition initiated over 20 years ago in Nairobi, Kenya which has become a platform to foster unity, camaraderie and military cooperation across Africa, with the theme, “Enhancing Military Cooperation in Africa through Sports,” 

The President Tinubu who was represented by the Vice President Kashim Shettima, stated that no single nation can tackle its security challenges alone but the collective safety and the well-being of the people demand standing together in unity as one united Africa. 

 "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."

Reflecting on the legacy of the game, the President commended the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa and President of the Organization of Military Sports in Africa (OSMA), Major General M. Abdullahi, for their leadership in reviving the event.

The President emphasized the role of sports in promoting physical fitness, discipline, and resilience among military personnel, vital traits for addressing Africa's diverse 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,"

President Tinubu further emphasized the broader importance of unity in tackling the continent's security threats stating that security challenges cannot be addressed through kinetic measures alone but friendships and partnerships that have long existed must be deepened. 

"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."