President Bola Tinubu has called on the military across Africa to unite and address insecurity and other threats to the continent’s unity and stability.
Mr Tinubu, represented by the Vice-President Kashim Shettima, made the call on Wednesday while declaring open the second edition of the Africa Military Games (AMGA) at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
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 president observed that no single nation can tackle insecurity alone.
“Our collective safety and the well-being of our people demand that we stand together, shoulder to shoulder, as one united Africa,” Mr Tinubu said.
He acknowledged the significance of the games in strengthening Africa’s collective security efforts.
The president said, “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.”
Mr Tinubu commended the chief of defence Staff, Christopher Musa, and president of the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa, Maikano Abdullahi, for their leadership in reviving the event.
He emphasised the role of sports in promoting physical fitness, discipline, and resilience among military personnel, vital traits for addressing Africa’s diverse security challenges.
Mr Tinubu also underscored the broader importance of unity in tackling the continent’s security threats.
He said, ”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.”
(NAN)
