Tinubu: African Militaries Must Unite for Continental Security

President Tinubu calls on African militaries to strengthen cooperation and close ranks, emphasizing the need for unity in addressing regional security challenges. 

President Bola Tinubu has urged militaries across Africa to come together in tackling insecurity and other challenges that threaten the unity and stability of the continent.

On Wednesday, he inaugurated the second edition of the Africa Military Games (AMGA) in Abuja, describing it as a historic platform to promote unity, camaraderie, and military cooperation across the continent.

The Games, themed “Enhancing Military Cooperation in Africa through Sports,” represent a revival of the tradition that began over two decades ago in Nairobi, Kenya.

At the opening ceremony of the games at Moshood Abiola National Stadium, President Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, remarked that no nation can address its security issues in isolation.

“The welfare and protection of our citizens require us to unite as one Africa,” he stated, highlighting the importance of the Games in bolstering collective security efforts across the continent. This statement was attributed to Tunibu by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant on Media & Communications (Office of The Vice President).

Tinubu went on to say, “This event is not just a meeting of exceptional athletes; it serves as an undeniable reminder of the collaboration that unites military institutions throughout our continent.”

Today, we reiterate the commitment to what is possible when we unite—not only as neighbors but also as protectors of a continent that relies on your courage, sacrifices, and unwavering dedication.

Reflecting on the game’s legacy, President Tinubu praised Chief of Defence Staff General C.G. Musa and Major General M. Abdullahi, President of the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa (OSMA), for their leadership in revitalizing the event.

The President highlighted sports as a key factor in enhancing physical fitness, discipline, and resilience among military personnel—essential qualities needed to tackle Africa’s various security challenges.

“Sports not only contribute to our physical fitness but also instill essential values like integrity, excellence, and discipline. When individuals are physically fit, they are more capable of meeting the challenges in their roles with resilience and confidence,” he stated.

Tinubu also emphasized the broader importance of unity in addressing the security threats faced by the continent.

He stated, “We cannot tackle the security challenges solely through physical actions. It’s crucial to strengthen and enhance our longstanding friendships and partnerships.”

“As long as any nation in our region faces threats, none of us can claim true security for our continent. Together, we will create a safer and stronger Africa.”

Earlier in his speech, General Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, explained that the second edition of these games is not only a celebration of military athletes’ physical prowess but also an opportunity to highlight the unity that connects armed forces across Africa.

He emphasized that the games serve as a reminder of the strength found in cooperation and friendship. He also encouraged the 1,625 athletes and officials from across Africa to embrace sportsmanship as they compete with one another in various events.

General Musa assured that the Nigerian Armed Forces will persist in fostering partnerships with other armed forces throughout Africa, aiming to strengthen their collective ability to defend the territorial integrity of nations across the region.

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Additionally, Maj. Gen. Maikano Abdullahi, President of the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa (OSMA), stated that hosting the second edition of these games in Nigeria fulfills the vision set by OSMA’s founding fathers to promote unity, friendship, and solidarity among African armed forces.

Maj. Gen. Abdullahi praised the dedication of Nigeria’s President and OSMA’s founding fathers, noting that the games offer a platform to highlight the rich heritage and talents present in Africa’s armed forces.

He encouraged participants to compete with both intensity and integrity, strengthening the bond that unifies all military forces across the continent.

The opening ceremony included a calisthenics display, performances by various artists, the hoisting of the OSMA and AMGA flags, an oath-taking ceremony by athletes and officials, and the symbolic lighting of the games torch by the Vice President.

Attending the event were several notable figures, including Rt Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives, represented by Hon Babajimi Benson, Chairman of the House Committee on Defence; Mohammed Abubakar Badaru and Bello Matawalle, Minister and Minister of State for Defence respectively; Alh. Shehu Dikko as Chairman of the National Sports Commission; Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede who is Acting Chief of Army Staff; Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla serving as Chief of Naval Staff; Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar from his position as Chief Air Proctor alongside heads off delegation across participating countires along with other senior military officiers just to name few.