The Armed Forces of Nigeria has called on the citizenry to come out en mass to support the ongoing African Military Games in the country,scheduled to start on November 20th in Abuja, Nigeria’s Capital City.
The Nigerian Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, made the call while briefing Journalists on the African Military Games According to him, the military came to review and celebrate the exciting opportunity for Nigeria to host the upcoming African military games in Abuja this November.
“As a team of defence staff, I’m pleased to announce that Nigeria will host the African military games, a prestigious event that brings together military personnel from across the African continent to compete in various sporting disciplines,” he said.
According to him, this event, which is scheduled to commence from Tuesday, November 18th – 30th 2024, presents a unique opportunity for our armed forces to showcase their skills, foster camaraderie amongst participants and strengthen military cooperation and partnership.
“The hosting of the African military games in Abuja is not only a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to promoting peace and security in the region, but also an opportunity to demonstrate our capabilities as a host nation,” he added.
He noted that the games will provide a platform for the Armed Forces to compete at an international level, exchange best practices with their counterparts from other African countries, and build lasting relationships that will contribute to the overall security and stability of the continent.
The CDS also announced that the finalisation of preparation for the games, including ensuring the necessary infrastructure and logistics support are in place to host this prestigious event.
“I’m confident that our Armed Forces will rise to the occasion and make the nation proud with their performance on and off the field,” he added.
“It is a message that this noble opportunity to host the continent will bring significant benefits to the Federal Capital Territory and the nation at large, including economic and sports development, global recognition and national pride.”
Let us therefore come together to ensure a heat free event. We need all Nigerians to come out to support the teams. Let us show the hospitality that is known of Nigerians and Nigerians. We are looking forward to a very wonderful, wonderful competition,” the CDS said.
Therefore, he urged citizens and friends to come out in masse and show their support for Armed Forces as they prepare to compete in the African Military Games.
“Let us together, as a nation, celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and unity that this event embodies. Thank you, as we all look forward to seeing our Armed Forces excel at the African Military Games in Abuja this November,” he said.
He appreciated the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his persistent backing and encouragement to the Armed Forces in attaining these enviable feats.
The CDS also gave special thanks to the host, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nysome Wike, for his unflinching support to host this auspicious event in the FCT, even at a very short period.
He assured the military commitment and their readiness to conduct the best event in time immemorial. He expressed his appreciations also to all those who have contributed one way or the other, either by cash and kind, to make this event possible amongst others.
The Director of Sports, Defence and the Chairman, Local Organising Committee, Air Vice Marshall Abidemi Marquis gave the run down of how the African Military Games will be and how countries that will be participating. According to him, this is going to be the most attended African military games.
The first edition took place 20 years ago which 21 nations attended. Air Vice Marshall Marquis said that 25 countries will be participating including Nigeria. He noted that all the facilities required have been upgraded while, some of them are being washed as they are speaking.
The facilities are being made ready for these athletes to compete among themselves. Federations are also working with us. All the officials are drawn for the 19 federations in Nigeria. Also, he noted that some of the world bodies sent some of their judges and referees to partake in this competition.
“There will be double tests to ensure that this game is done fairly. Vehicles will be made available to organise people to the national stadium,” he said.
“We have over 2,400 supporters as they are truly grateful to support our team. We have 500 students participating.”
The opening ceremony will be starting on Wednesday as they expect all participants to be coming in from 3 p.m (WAT).
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