President Bola Tinubu has called on the military across Africa to unite in addressing insecurity and other threats to the continent’s unity and stability.
He gave the charge on Wednesday when he officially declared open the second edition of the Africa Military Games (AMGA) in Abuja, heralding the event as a historic platform to foster unity, camaraderie and military cooperation across the continent.
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.
Speaking during the opening ceremony of the games at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, President Tinubu, who was represented at the event by his deputy, Vice President Kashim Shettima, observed that no single nation can tackle its security challenges alone.
“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,” Tinubu 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.”
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”.
