Nigerian Army Triumphs at Armed Forces Games

The Nigerian Army has emerged victorious at the Nigerian Armed Forces Games, clinching the top spot with an impressive haul of medals. The event, which concluded on Friday, September 27, 2024, at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna, showcased the athletic prowess and professionalism of military personnel from across the nation.

The Army dominated the competition, securing a total of 264 medals, including 172 gold, 60 silver, and 32 bronze. The Nigerian Air Force came in second with 33 gold, 103 silver, and 51 bronze medals, making up a total of 187 medals. The Nigerian Navy took third place, collecting 129 medals in total, consisting of 18 gold, 43 silver, and 68 bronze.

The games, themed “Enhancing Military Professionalism through Sports,” featured over 1,600 athletes from the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The event served as a preparatory platform for the upcoming Africa Military Games, scheduled for November 2024 in Abuja.

During the closing ceremony, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, praised the military’s performance and readiness. Represented by the Overseeing Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Samuel Aruwan, the Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the Armed Forces in addressing security challenges.

“The timing of this competition is apt, given the current security challenges facing our nation. It is crucial for our military personnel to maintain physical fitness, mental alertness, and emotional stability to tackle these challenges,” Governor Sani stated.

He also commended the Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa, for initiating the games, which acted as a trial and selection process for Team Nigeria ahead of the Africa Military Games. Sani assured that the Federal Government, under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, would do everything possible to protect lives and property, ensuring even development across the country.

“We shall not relent in our efforts to secure a better Nigeria for our children. The clarion call is for us to intensify our fight against security threats and ensure a free, safe, and egalitarian Nigeria and African continent,” he added.

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, expressed pride in the success of the event, noting that it highlighted the unity, discipline, and camaraderie of the Nigerian military.

“I stand here today feeling incredibly grateful and proud. This event has brought together the finest men and women of our armed forces, showcasing not just your physical prowess but the spirit of unity, discipline, and camaraderie that defines the Nigerian military,” General Musa said.

He also applauded the athletes for their commitment and sportsmanship, emphasizing that the values displayed on the playing field are the same ones needed on the battlefield.

“To our athletes, I commend you for your dedication, determination, and sportsmanship throughout the competition. You have displayed the same values that make our military strong: perseverance, discipline, and respect for one another,” Musa added.

The games, which began on September 23, saw various sporting activities, including athletics, football, volleyball, and basketball. The event fostered a spirit of healthy competition and teamwork among the Armed Forces, serving as a reminder of the military’s dedication to both national security and physical fitness.

With the successful conclusion of the Armed Forces Games, the focus now shifts to the Africa Military Games in November, where the Nigerian Armed Forces will compete against their counterparts from across the continent.