Military Games Will strengthen military cooperation, partnership in Africa – CDS

The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, says the Africa Military Games will strengthen military cooperation and partnership in Africa.

Gen Musa stated this in Abuja on Thursday, during a world press conference to announce the forthcoming games, scheduled for Nov. 8 to 30, in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

He added that the event presents a unique opportunity for Nigeria’s Armed Forces to showcase their skills to the world and foster comradery amongst participants.

He also said that the initiative was also another means of Nigerian military non-kinetic operations.

The CDS said that hosting the African Military Games in Abuja, was a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to promoting peace and security in the region.

He added that it also provides an opportunity for the nation to demonstrate its capabilities as a host nation.

“The games will provide a platform for our Armed Forces to compete at an international level and exchange best practices with their counterparts from other African countries.

“It will also build lasting relationships that will contribute to the overall security and stability of the continent.

“I am confident that our Armed Forces will rise to the occasion and make the nation proud with their performances both on and off the field,” he added.

Musa said that the Nigerian Armed Forces was currently finalising preparations for the games, including ensuring that necessary infrastructure and logistics support were in place to host this prestigious event.

He thanked the Minister of FCT, Mr Nyesom Wike, for being a wonderful host, adding that the noble opportunity to host the continent would bring significant benefits to the FCT and the nation at large.

He identified some of the benefits to include economic and sports development, global recognition, and national pride.

“Let us therefore come together to ensure a hitch-free event.

“I, therefore, urge all well-meaning Nigerians and corporate organisations to show their support for our Armed Forces as they prepare to compete in the African Military Games.

“Let us come together as a nation to celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and unity that this event embodies.

“Let us show them the love and hospitality that Nigerians have,” the CDS said.

The Chairman, Local Organising Committee, AVM Abidemi Marquis, said that theme of the vent is “Enhancing Military Cooperation in Africa through Sports”

He said that the objective was to foster the already established relationship amongst the military in Africa and enhance awareness and cooperation away from war.

Said that a total of 42 African countries have indicated interest to participate in the games, out of which 27 countries have submitted their final entries, while awaiting others from now to Oct. 15.

“As of today, we have 17,75 officials and athletes from the 27 countries, out of the 3,000 officials and athletes expected to participate in the games from the 42 countries.

“We will be competing for 19 sporting events, including all the ball games, swimming, obstacle crossing, taekwondo, and wrestling among others,” he said.

Also, the President of Military Sports in Africa, Maj.-Gen. Maikano Abdullahi, said that the goal of the organisation was to take the armed forces of Africa away from the battlefield to the field of sport.

“The idea is to bring peace, stability and understanding among members of the armed forces from the 44-member countries in the continent, to understand ourselves,” Abdullahi said.

On his part, the FCT Minister thanked the CDS for giving Abuja the opportunity to be the chief host of this all-important military games that involve most countries in the continent.

Wike said that the 3,000 expected participants would become ambassadors and tell the world that indeed, “Abuja is one of the best cities in Africa and Nigeria is moving forward.

“On our part, we will do everything to give you the necess”