Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike has stated that the military’s role extends beyond fighting wars; they should also have opportunities to relax.
The minister disclosed this to newsmen in Abuja on Thursday during a press briefing about the forthcoming All Africa Military Games, which are set to take place in the nation’s capital.
Wike also thanked the Chief of Defence Staff for granting Abuja the opportunity to host these important military games involving all countries in Africa.
He said, “Let me thank the Chief of Defence Staff and his team for giving Abuja the opportunity to be the chief host of this all-important military event that involves all countries in Africa. What you have done is to take the bull by the horns by showcasing Nigerians, particularly Abuja, to the entire African world. You may not understand the impact this will have on their citizens and Nigerians in general.
“First of all, you will come to appreciate the fact that the FCT, the capital of Nigeria, is safe, and to that extent, Nigeria is safe. With over 3,000 people coming to a city they may not know, you can see what they will take back with them. They will become our ambassadors and tell outsiders that indeed, Abuja is one of the best cities in Africa and that Nigeria is truly moving forward.
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“On our part, we have said this before, and I want to reiterate that we will not let this opportunity slip away. We will do everything possible to provide you with the necessary support so you can successfully host this event, and your colleagues will be proud of you. The military is something many people do not understand.
“The military is not only about going to fight a war; they should also have the chance to relax. The military comprises individuals who are boxers, good wrestlers, and skilled footballers, and they need opportunities to relate to their colleagues. This is very important. You can imagine the kind of social activities that will take place from November 18 to 30, which will help people unwind and settle down.
“So, on the part of the FCT, be assured that we will provide all necessary support and ensure that security is tight in the FCT. We are already collaborating with our sister security agencies and the local organizing committee to ensure a smooth occasion. Once more, thank you.”
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, in his remarks, thanked President Bola Tinubu for always supporting the Armed Forces and expressed gratitude to the FCT Minister for his assistance, promising that his officers would rise to the occasion and make the nation proud by performing optimally in the games.
He said, “Today we are here to unveil and celebrate the opportunity for Nigeria to host the upcoming African Military Games in Abuja this November. As the Chief of Defence Staff, I am pleased to announce that Nigeria will host the African Military Games, a prestigious event that brings together military personnel from across the African continent to compete in various sporting disciplines.
“This event, scheduled to take place from November 18 to 30, 2024, presents a unique opportunity for our Armed Forces to showcase their skills, foster camaraderie among participants, and strengthen military cooperation and partnership. It is also another means of our non-kinetic operations.
“The hosting of the African Military Games in Abuja not only demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to promoting peace and security in the region, but also provides an opportunity to showcase our capabilities as a host nation.
“The Games will serve as 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. We are currently finalizing preparations for the Games, ensuring that the necessary infrastructure and logistical support are in place to host this prestigious event.
“We sincerely thank His Excellency the FCT Minister for being a wonderful host. We are fortunate to have him during this time because we know it will be world-class. I am confident that our Armed Forces will rise to the occasion and make the nation proud with their performances both on and off the field.
“This remarkable opportunity to host the continent will bring significant benefits to the FCT and the nation at large, including economic and sports development, global recognition, and national pride. Let us come together to ensure a hitch-free event. I would like to take this opportunity to once again deeply appreciate our President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu, for his persistent backing and encouragement to the Armed Forces in achieving this enviable feat.
“My special thanks also go to our host, the Chief Host himself, the Honorable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Wike, for his unwavering support for this auspicious event and for the FCT. I would also like to acknowledge our Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owen-Eno, for making available the facilities that will be utilized. We also appreciate all members of the FCT Executive for their support.
“I therefore urge all well-meaning Nigerians and corporate organizations to show their support for our Armed Forces as they prepare to compete in the African Military Games. Let us come together as a nation to celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and unity that this event embodies. Let us show them the love and hospitality that Nigerians are known for.”
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