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President Bola Tinubu has urged African military forces to come together in a unified front, emphasizing the critical need for collaboration in tackling the persistent security challenges that threaten not only the safety of the continent’s people but also the broader stability and cohesion of its nations. He called for a collective, coordinated response to address the growing insecurity and safeguard the unity of Africa.
During the official launch of the second edition of the Africa Military Games (AMGA) in Abuja on Wednesday, President Bola Tinubu addressed the importance of the event, framing it as a historical moment for African military cooperation.
He emphasized that the games provide an unparalleled opportunity to unite the continent’s armed forces, build lasting bonds of friendship, and strengthen collaborative efforts in the pursuit of regional peace and stability. This event, he noted, is more than just a competition—it is a cornerstone in the effort to unify Africa through shared purpose and common goals.
The Games with the theme, “Enhancing Military Cooperation in Africa through Sports,” marks a revival of the tradition initiated over 20 years ago in Nairobi, Kenya.
The theme “Africa through Sports” represents a revival of a tradition that was first established more than two decades ago in Nairobi, Kenya, bringing full circle the vision of using sport as a unifying force across the continent.
A group of military personnel were present at the grand opening of the second edition of the Africa Military Games (AMGA) in Abuja, showcasing the commitment and unity of Africa’s armed forces. The event was covered on X/@DefenceInfoNG, highlighting the significance of the occasion.
At the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, where the games were officially opened, President Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, addressed the crowd with a key observation: no nation is equipped to combat its security threats independently, signaling the vital role of regional cooperation in addressing such challenges.
“Our collective safety and the well-being of our people demand that we stand together, shoulder to shoulder, as one united Africa,” he said, acknowledging the significance of the Games in strengthening Africa’s collective security efforts,” Tunibu was quoted as saying in a statement by Stanley Nkwocha, the Senior Special to The President on Media & Communications (Office of The Vice President).
Tinubu continued, “This occasion is more than a gathering of extraordinary athletes; it is an undeniable reminder of the cooperation that binds the military institutions across our continent.
“Today, we reaffirm the promise of what we can achieve when we stand together—not just as neighbours, but as guardians of a continent that depends on your valour, sacrifices, and unyielding dedication.”
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Reflecting on the legacy of the game, President Tinubu commended the Chief of Defence Staff, General C.G. Musa and President of the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa (OSMA), Major General M. Abdullahi, for their leadership in reviving the event.
The President emphasised the role of sports in promoting physical fitness, discipline, and resilience among military personnel, vital traits for addressing Africa’s diverse security challenges.
“Sports not only keep us physically fit but also infuse core values such as integrity, excellence, and discipline. When our men and women are fit, they are better equipped to confront the challenges of their duties with resilience and confidence,” he said.
Tinubu also underscored the broader importance of unity in tackling the continent’s security threats.
His words: “The security challenges we face cannot be addressed through kinetic measures alone. We must deepen the friendships and partnerships that have long existed among us.
“As long as any nation within our shared geography remains under threat, none of us can declare our continent secure. Together, we will build a safer, stronger Africa”.
Before the games officially began, General Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, shared his perspective, highlighting that the significance of the second edition extends beyond the athleticism of the military participants. It represents an opportunity to demonstrate the deep and enduring connections that link Africa’s armed forces, fostering unity through shared values and cooperation.
