Time Has Come For African Military To Close Ranks – Tinubu • Channels Television

President Bola Tinubu has called on militaries across Africa to unite to tackle insecurity and other threats to the unity and stability of the continent.

He assumed office on Wednesday when he officially declared open the second edition of the Africa Military Games (AMGA) in Abuja, describing the event as a historic platform to promote unity, amity and military cooperation across the continent.

The Games, themed “Enhancing Military Cooperation in Africa through Sports”, mark the revival of a tradition started 20 years ago in Nairobi, Kenya.

 

Speaking during the opening ceremony of the Games at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, President Tinubu, who was represented by his Vice President Kashim Shettima, said no country can tackle its security challenges alone.

Tunibu was quoted as saying, “Our collective security and the well-being of our people demand that we stand together, shoulder to shoulder, as a united Africa.” He acknowledged the importance of sports in strengthening Africa's collective security efforts. Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President), said in a statement.

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Tinubu further said, “This occasion is more than a gathering of extraordinary athletes; It is an undeniable reminder of the collaboration that links military institutions across our continent.

“Today, we reaffirm the promise of what we can achieve when we stand together – not just as neighbors, but as protectors of a continent that depends on your heroism, sacrifice, and steadfast dedication. “Depends.”

Reflecting on the legacy of the game, President Tinubu commended the Chief of Defense Staff, General CG Musa and the Chairman, Military Sports Organization 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, which are vital qualities to address Africa's diverse security challenges.

“Sports not only keep us physically fit but also promote core values ​​like honesty, excellence and discipline. When our men and women are fit, they are better equipped to face the challenges of their duties with resilience and confidence,” he said.

Tinubu also underlined the overarching importance of unity in tackling security threats to the continent.

His words: “The security challenges we face cannot be addressed through kinetic measures alone. We must deepen the long-standing friendship and partnership that exists between us.

“None of us can declare our continent safe as long as any country in our shared geography remains under threat. “Together we will build a safer, stronger Africa.”

Earlier in his remarks, Chief of Defense Staff, General Musa pointed out that the second edition of the Games is not just a celebration of the physical prowess of military athletes but an opportunity to showcase the bond that binds the armed forces. African continent.

He said the Games are a reminder of the power of collaboration and friendship, and urged the 1,625 athletes and officials from across Africa participating in the Games to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship as they engage with each other in various sporting events. Are involved.

General Musa assured that the Nigerian Armed Forces will continue its partnership with other armed forces across Africa to enhance its ability to protect the territorial integrity of countries in the region.

Also, the Chairman of the Organization of Military Sports in Africa (OSMA), Major General Meccano Abdullahi, said hosting the second edition of the Games in Nigeria is to realize the vision of the founders of OSMA, which is to promote armed forces across Africa. Unity, friendship and solidarity among the forces.

Paying tribute to the commitment of the President of Nigeria and the founders of OSMA, Major General Abdullahi said the Games provide a platform to showcase the rich heritage and talents inherent in Africa's armed forces.

He urged the participants to compete fiercely and fairly, rekindling the bond that unites all military forces across the continent.

The opening ceremony included calisthenics demonstrations, performances by various artists, unfurling of the OSMA and AMGA flags, swearing-in ceremony by athletes and officials, as well as the symbolic lighting of the Games torch by the Vice President.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon was also present in this programme. Tajuddin Abbas, represented by Honorable Babajimi Benson, Chairman of the House Committee on Defence; Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar Badru; Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle; Chairman, National Sports Commission, Alh. Shehu Dikko; Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede; Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogala; Including the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, heads of delegations from the participating countries and other senior military officers.