PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu has urged military forces across Africa to unite in addressing insecurity and other threats to the continent’s unity and stability.
The call was made yesterday as he officially opened the second edition of the Africa Military Games (AMGA) in Abuja.
Tinubu hailed the event as a historic platform for fostering unity, camaraderie, and military cooperation across Africa.
Themed “Enhancing Military Cooperation in Africa through Sports,” the Games revive a tradition initiated over two decades ago in Nairobi, Kenya.
The opening ceremony took place at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium and featured military personnel from across the continent.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of collective action in overcoming security challenges, stating, “Our collective safety and the well-being of our people demand that we stand together, shoulder to shoulder, as one united Africa.”
He highlighted the Games as a symbol of unity and collaboration among Africa’s military institutions.
“This occasion is more than a gathering of extraordinary athletes; it is a reminder of the cooperation that binds our military forces. Today, we reaffirm what we can achieve when we stand together—not just as neighbors, but as guardians of our continent, relying on your valor, sacrifices, and dedication,” Tinubu said in a statement by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Communications.
Reflecting on the legacy of the Games, Tinubu commended General C.G. Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, and Major General M. Abdullahi, President of the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa (OSMA), for their leadership in reviving the event.
He stressed the role of sports in fostering physical fitness, discipline, and resilience among military personnel—key attributes for addressing Africa’s diverse security challenges.
“Sports instill integrity, excellence, and discipline. A physically fit force is better equipped to face the demands of duty with resilience and confidence,” Tinubu added, while also underscoring the importance of partnerships and unity in tackling security threats.
“As long as any nation in our shared geography remains under threat, none of us can declare our continent secure. Together, we will build a safer, stronger Africa.”
Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Musa, described the Games as a celebration of military athletes’ prowess and an opportunity to strengthen bonds among armed forces across Africa.
He urged the 1,625 athletes and officials participating to embody sportsmanship throughout the events.
Maj. Gen. Maikano Abdullahi, President of OSMA, emphasized the vision of fostering unity, friendship, and solidarity among Africa’s armed forces, noting that the Games also highlight the rich heritage and talents of the continent’s militaries.
The opening ceremony included a calisthenics display, performances, flag-hoisting, an oath-taking ceremony, and the lighting of the Games torch by Vice President Shettima.
Distinguished attendees included the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas (represented by Hon. Babajimi Benson), Defence Minister Mohammed Abubakar Badaru, and senior military officers from across Africa.
