President Tinubu Declares AMGA 2024 close, Calls On Other African Countries To Join Hands To Build A United Africa
By Anthonia N Okwuolise
As the 2nd edition of Africa Military Games which brought together over 20 African nations in participation including Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Tunisia, Ethiopia, Mali, South Africa among others and was officially kick- started on the 18th November, 2024 at the Abiola Stadium in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, also came to closed on Saturday 30th November, 2024.
Declaring the games closed,, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, able represented by the Vice President, Sen. Kashim Shettima, noted that the second edition of the Africa Military Games amongst African nations have demonstrated the true essence of unity and camaraderie that transcends borders and strengthens the tied that bind us as one great African family. Adding that the grand event has more than just a display of athletic prowess.
In his speech, the president said, ” it is with profound joy and pride that I join you today to bring to a close the second edition of the Africa Military Service Abuja 2024. Over these exciting years of brotherhood and sisterhood, you have demonstrated the true essence of unity and camaraderie that transcends borders and strengthens the ties that bind us as one great African family. This grand event has more than just a display of athletic prowess.
“It has been a celebration of the enduring spirit of collaboration, the pursuit of excellence, and the unwavering resolve of our militaries to stand together. This final act of your grace surely invites each of us to reaffirm our commitment to pursue our shared interests beyond the fields of competition. The games we have witnessed are a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when we unite, not just as soldiers, but as guardians of a shared destiny.
“Indeed, I am elated to witness not only showcase the possibilities we can achieve when we stand together, but also the strength that comes with our unity. This platform has provided an extraordinary opportunity for me to participate, exchange ideas, and explore innovative solutions to our shared challenges. Supporting activities such as these are not just recreational.”He stated.
He said as a Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States, he reiterated his unwavering commitment to stabilizing solutions and extending efforts across the continent.
This he said is a duty we owe our people, but to succeed, we must deepen ties across our nations and foster a robust sense of camaraderie among our troops.
President Bola Tinubu while commending the vision and leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the OSMA President, Maj.-Gen. Abdullahi Maikano for their dedication and hard work, along with their teams which he said have brought this remarkable event to fruition.
He also congratulated all delegates from the participating countries for their exemplary conduct and the immense display of sportsmanship.Observing that through their professionalism and discipline, they have shown that they are not only military personnel, but also extraordinary sportsmen and women.
“The smooth and hitch-free conduct of these Games is a testament to your collective excellence, a shared achievement for all Africans to celebrate.
“To our esteemed delegates, I thank you on behalf of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for making the sacrifices to leave your comfort zones and travel to Nigeria for this significant event.
“I trust that your expectations have been met, and I hope your experiences here have justified your commitment. As you prepare to return to your respective nations, I wish you joy and mercy.
“Please convey our warm regards to your commanders-in-chief, service chiefs, and families.
“More than ever before, let us join hands to build a united Africa, an Africa that will better serve its people and stand tall on the global stage.
“On this note, it is my singular honor and privilege, on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, to declare the Africa Military Games Abuja 2024 closed.”