Africa Military Games: Wike Pledges Support, Security

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has assured the Nigerian military of the support of his administration and provision of security during the Africa Military Games to be held in Abuja from the 18th-30th of November, 2024.

The minister gave the assurance during a courtesy visit, led by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christoper Musa, along with other high-ranking officers of the military, the president of the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa, Major-General Maikano Abdullahi, as well as the chairman and members of the Local Organising Committee, on Thursday.

In his remarks, Wike commended the CDS for accepting to host the Games, noting that with over 3,000 persons expected to attend the games, they will give positive feedback to their countries about the safety of the FCT and the country at large.

He added that the administration will liaise with the local organising committee to ensure that security is tight through the period of the Games.

“What you have done is to take the bull by the horn by showcasing Nigerians, and Abuja in particular, to the entire African world. You may not understand the impact this will have on the FCT and Nigerians in general.”

First of all, you will come to appreciate the fact that FCT, the capital of Nigeria, is safe, and to that extent, Nigeria is safe.”.

“Where you have over 3,000 people coming to a city, you can see what they will go back with. They will be our ambassadors and tell outsiders that, indeed, Abuja is one of the best cities in Africa, and indeed, Nigeria is really moving forward.”.

“On our part, we have said so before, and I want to reiterate that this opportunity, we will not let it go. We will do everything to give you the necessary support so you can have a successful hosting and your colleagues will be proud of you. So, on the part of FCT, be sure that we are going to give all the necessary support and make sure that security is tight in the FCT. We are already working with all sister security agencies, together with the local organising committee, so that we will have a hitch-free occasion,” he said.

Speaking earlier, the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, said the hosting of the Military Games in Nigeria served as a testament to the nation’s commitment to promoting peace and security in the region.

He added that the Games will provide a platform for the armed forces to compete at an international level, exchange best practices with their counterparts, and build lasting relationships that will contribute to the overall security and stability of the continent.

“The hosting of the African Military Games in Abuja is not only a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to promoting peace and security in the region but also an opportunity to demonstrate our capabilities as a host nation. The Games will provide a platform for our Armed Forces to compete at an international level, exchange best practices with their counterparts from other African countries, and build lasting relationships that will contribute to the overall security and stability of the continent.

He further stated that hosting the Games will add “significant benefits” to the FCT and the nation at large, “including economic and sports development, global recognition, and national pride,” while appreciating President Bola Tinubu for his support and encouragement to the military.

Meanwhile, the President of the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa, Major-General Maikano Abdullahi, disclosed that 42 countries had shown interest in the games while 27 had sent entry lists for participation in the games, including all neighbouring countries to Nigeria such as Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, among others.