The Nigerian Armed Forces Games, held at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna from September 23 to September 27, 2024, culminated in a vibrant showcase of talent and camaraderie among the nation’s military branches. The Nigerian Army emerged as the overall champion, winning an impressive tally of 264 medals, which included 172 gold, 60 silver, and 32 bronze. The Nigerian Air Force followed, securing second place with a total of 187 medals—33 gold, 103 silver, and 51 bronze. The Nigerian Navy completed the podium in third place with 129 medals, comprised of 18 gold, 43 silver, and 68 bronze. The games provided an essential platform for over 1,600 athletes from the Army, Navy, and Air Force to demonstrate their athletic capabilities while fostering unity in preparation for the upcoming 2024 Africa Military Games.
Themed “Enhancing Military Professionalism through Sports,” the event served not only as a competition but also as an opportunity to emphasize the importance of physical fitness, mental alertness, and emotional stability among military personnel. Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, underscored the significance of the games during his speech at the closing ceremony. Although he was represented by the Overseeing Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, his message was clear: the military’s professionalism and combat readiness are crucial in addressing the myriad security challenges facing Nigeria today. Governor Sani reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the Nigerian Armed Forces as they work to maintain peace and security in the nation.
Furthermore, the Governor expressed appreciation for the visionary leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa, who initiated the games as a crucial element in selecting Team Nigeria for the Africa Military Games slated for November 2024. Governor Sani pointed out that the timing of the games was particularly relevant to the ongoing security concerns in the country, emphasizing the imperative for military personnel to remain physically and mentally prepared for their duties. He reassured attendees that the Federal Government, under President Bola Tinubu, is dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of Nigerian citizens while promoting equitable development across all regions.
In his remarks, General Christopher Musa echoed the sentiments expressed by the Governor, expressing immense pride in the achievements of the Games. He highlighted the importance of unity, discipline, and camaraderie that are the hallmarks of the Nigerian military. General Musa commended the athletes for their commitment, determination, and sportsmanship throughout the competition. He noted that the values exhibited during the games are reflective of those required for success both on the battlefield and in athletic competition. Musa’s acknowledgment of these characteristics demonstrated the broader significance of the event in cultivating a well-rounded military force.
The Nigerian Armed Forces Games have played an integral role in enhancing the professionalism and combat readiness of military personnel through the medium of sports. The successful organization and execution of the competition provided a unique opportunity for members of the armed forces to bond and strengthen their relationships while honing their athletic skills. As the nation prepares for the Africa Military Games, the armed forces’ commitment to excellence will likely not only elevate their performance in international competitions but also aid in enhancing their overall capabilities.
In conclusion, the Nigerian Army’s victory at the Armed Forces Games and the valuable lessons learned from this experience set a benchmark for future military engagements. With the imminent Africa Military Games on the horizon, the dedication to maintaining physical fitness and mental resilience among military personnel is a step in the right direction. The mutual support between the military and government, coupled with public acknowledgment of their efforts, proposes a promising outlook for addressing security challenges and fortifying Nigeria’s armed forces on various fronts. Through initiatives like the Armed Forces Games, there lies an opportunity to cultivate a stronger, more united military, committed to the well-being and security of the Nigerian populace.
