In a powerful call for unity, President Bola Tinubu emphasized that Africa’s security challenges can no longer be tackled by individual nations alone, urging the continent’s military forces to unite.
He made this statement at the opening of the second edition of the Africa Military Games (AMGA) in Abuja on Wednesday, November 20, 2024.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu called on African military personnel to come together in addressing the growing security threats that pose risks to the continent’s unity and stability.
The AMGA, with the theme “Enhancing Military Cooperation in Africa through Sports,” marked a revival of a tradition initiated over 20 years ago in Nairobi, Kenya.
The event, held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, saw military representatives from across Africa participating in sporting activities aimed at strengthening military cooperation and fostering camaraderie among African armed forces.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, President Tinubu, through Vice President Shettima, noted that no single nation could handle its security concerns in isolation.
He urged, “Our collective safety and the well-being of our people demand that we stand together, shoulder to shoulder, as one united Africa.”
He acknowledged the Games’ vital role in enhancing Africa’s collective security efforts.
“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,” Tinubu said.
The Nigerian leader continued, stressing the importance of unity: “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.”
He commended the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General C.G. Musa, and the President of the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa (OSMA), Major General Maikano Abdullahi, for their efforts in reviving the Games.
Tinubu also highlighted the importance of sports in building physical fitness, discipline, and resilience among military personnel—key traits needed to address Africa’s complex security landscape.
“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.
In addition to the focus on physical fitness, Tinubu stressed that security threats cannot be solved through force alone.
“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,” he said.
He concluded with a reminder of Africa’s shared responsibility for regional stability:
“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.”
Earlier in his remarks, General Musa explained that the second edition of the Games was not just a celebration of the physical prowess of military athletes, but also a demonstration of the enduring bond that unites African armed forces.
He emphasized that the Games serve as a reminder of the power of cooperation and friendship among nations, urging the 1,625 athletes and officials from across Africa to imbibe the spirit of sportsmanship throughout the event.
The Chief of Defence Staff assured that the Armed Forces of Nigeria would continue to foster partnerships with other African military forces, enhancing their collective capacity to defend the territorial integrity of their countries.
He also reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening defense cooperation across the continent.
Maj. Gen. Abdullahi, the President of OSMA, praised the hosting of the second edition of the Games in Nigeria, aligning with the founding vision of OSMA to foster unity, friendship, and solidarity among Africa’s armed forces.
He paid tribute to the leadership of President Tinubu and the founding fathers of OSMA, noting that the Games provide a platform to showcase the rich heritage and talent of Africa’s military forces.
“Let us compete fiercely and fairly, but most importantly, let us reignite the bond that unites all the military forces across Africa,” Abdullahi urged the participants.
The opening ceremony featured a spectacular display of callisthenics, cultural performances, the hoisting of the OSMA and AMGA flags, and an oath-taking ceremony by the athletes and officials.
The Games torch was symbolically lit by Vice President Shettima, marking the beginning of the competition.
The event was attended by numerous high-ranking officials, including the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon. Tajudeen Abbas (represented by the Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, Hon. Babajimi Benson), the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar Badaru, the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Alh. Shehu Dikko, the Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, and heads of military delegations from the participating countries.
As the Games unfold, they serve not only as a celebration of athleticism but also as a timely reminder of Africa’s shared security challenges and the collective action required to address them.
With military cooperation and unity at the forefront, the AMGA provides a platform for African forces to strengthen their resolve to protect the continent’s future.