The Chief of Defence Staff, CDS, General Christopher Gwabin Musa has said that the noble opportunity to host the continent African Military Games in Abuja will bring significant benefits to the federal capital territory and the nation at large including economic and sports development, global recognition and national pride.

General Musa said this at a media briefing in commemoration of African Military Games in Abuja this November which commenced today, 18th November to 30th November 2024 and presented a unique opportunity for military athletes to showcase their skills whilst collaborating amongst participants and federating military cooperation and partnerships.

The CDS noted that 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 Nigeria's capabilities as the host nation.

He said the Games will provide the manpower for the 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.

"I am also pleased to announce the finalisation of preparations for the Games including ensuring the necessary infrastructure and logistics support that is needed to host this prestigious event.

"I am confident that our armed forces will rise to the occasion and make Nigeria proud with their performance on and off the field. It is a message" he added

General Musa pointed out that every Nigerian has contributed to the success of this event, including the members of the media.
"Because without you, Nigerians would not know what's going on here. I want to assure you of our commitment and our readiness to conduct the best events in time immemorial. But we need a lot of support.

"We need all Nigerians to come out to support the teams. Let us show the hospitality and love of Nigerians in Nigeria. We are looking forward to a very wonderful, wonderful competition.

"I can't wait for all friends to come out on mass and show their support for Armed Forces as they prepare to compete in the African military games. Let us together, as a nation, celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship, camaraderie and unity like this event embodies." he said

In his remarks, the Chairman Local Organizing Committee of the 2nd Africa Military Games (AMGA) Abuja 2024, Air Vice Marshal ( AVM) Abidemi Marquis announced that as of today, eight nations arrived at Abuja yesterday and today. Tomorrow morning and tomorrow evening, the rest of the nations that have indicated their interest to participate will arrive.

At the end of the day, Abuja will be 25 countries plus Nigeria. Obstacle crossing and shooting will not be taking place here. Shooting will be at 177 Guards Battalion, Keffi and the obstacle crossing will be in Giri, Nigerian High School at Giri.


We have 474 athletes representing Nigeria. Nigeria arrived yesterday at 60. Tunisia, they are coming with 40. Ghana arrived with 102 athletes and officials. Ghana, 26. Tanzania, 16. Those are the ones that arrived so far. This morning, by 4 a.m., Ethiopians will be arriving. Eritreans will be arriving.

He said some other countries, also Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, they are coming. So, in all, this is going to be one of the most attended African American Games. The first edition that took place in Nairobi 22 years ago and 21 nations attended. So far, all the facilities required are being upgraded. Some innovators, some of them are being watched as we are speaking.

AVM Marquis that the facilities are being made ready for these athletes to compete among themselves. Federations are also working with us. All the officials are drawn from the 19 federations in Nigeria.
Also, some of the world bodies sent some of their judges and referees to partake in this competition. There will be doping tests to ensure that this game is done fairly. Very good to be made available to mobilize people to the national stadium.

We have over 2,500 supporters club that we are training right now to support our team. We have 500 students participating in Calisthenics. So, by and large, the University of Nigeria is ready to deliver a world class event.

Nigeria will host the African Military Games which is an event that brings together military personnel from across the African continent to compete in various sporting disciplines.
source: https://www.spyetv.com.ng/2024/11/474-athletes-to-represent-nigeria-at.html