By Joy Odor
The Nigeria Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa has affirmed that the African Military Games will demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to executing a world-class event, boost national pride, enhance global recognition, and spur economic and sports development in the Federal Capital Territory and beyond.
The CDS who disclosed this during his speech at a press conference to mark the activities lineup for the game, informed that the games are scheduled to hold in Abuja from November 18 to 30, 2024, featuring 25 Nations, including Nigeria, and involve 19 sporting events across multiple venues.
General Musa said the success of the Games depends on the collective support of Nigerians, who are encouraged to show their hospitality and rally behind the teams.
He noted that the event would showcase the country’s strength, unity, and readiness to take on esteemed responsibilities and also highlight the continent’s Armed Forces through sports, fostering peace, cooperation, and partnerships among African countries.
The CDS expressed optimism that Nigeria armed forces will rise to the occasion and make the nation proud with their performance on and off the field.
“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.”
“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.
“This event, which is scheduled to commence from 18 November to 30 November 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.
“The games, he noted, will provide a platform for armed forces of Nigeria 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 finalization of preparation for the games, including putting in place the necessary infrastructure and logistics support to host the event
“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. Let me use this opportunity to once again deeply appreciate our President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Tinubu, for his persistent backing and encouragement to the Armed Forces in attaining these enviable feats.”he said.
Speaking, the Local Organizing Committee Chairman (LOC), Air Vice Marshall Abidemi Marquis, assured that significant preparations have been made to ensure the readiness of facilities, with upgrades and renovations completed to meet international standards.
According to him, the African Military Games promised to set a high benchmark in participation, competition, and organizational excellence, reflecting Nigeria’s capability as a host and its dedication to fostering unity and cooperation through sports.
“The games will provide a platform for armed forces of Nigeria 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 first edition took place 20 years ago with 21 nations attending, he disclosed that all the facilities required for the games have been upgraded.
“The facilities are being made ready for these athletes to compete among themselves. Federations are also working with us. All the officials are drawn from the 19 federations in Nigeria.
“Also, 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 organize people to the national stadium.
“We just hope that our citizens and those in the contiguous states will come and make it a family affair. We want to make it a family affair” he stressed.
