By Eunice Orike
Minister of Federal Capital Territory Nyesom wike, has applauded Chief of Defence Staff, describing him as a leader, taking the bull by the horn.
The minister gave the commendation at a press conference to mark the forthcoming all military games scheduled to hold from 18th to 30th November 2024 in Abuja.
He said the CDS has described due diligence to Nigerians, and Abuja in particular, to the entire African world, saying he has act the military and entire citizens in general.
“First of all, you will come to appreciate the fact that FCT, the capital of Nigeria, is safe, and to that extent Nigeria is safe. Where you have over 3,000 people coming to a city that they go, you can see what they will go back with.
“They will be our ambassadors and tell outsiders that look, indeed, Abuja is one of the best cities in Africa and indeed Nigeria is really moving forward.
“On our part, we will not let it go. We will do everything to give you the necessary support so you can have a successful hosting and your colleagues will be proud of you”, he said.
He explained that the military is not only to go and fight a war but Military should also relax and have people who are boxers, who are good wrestlers, who are good footballers, and then try to relate to their colleagues.
“You can imagine from the 18th of November to 30th of November, the kind of social activities that will take place and that relaxes people, noting that it will bring succour to some grey areas of the nation”, he said.
He thanked the CDS for accepting to host the all-important game. The time is not on our side. The 18th of November is only just one month, so we should do all we can to work in the club to make sure that we achieve this.
“So, on the part of FCT, be sure that we are going to give all the necessary support and make sure that security is tight in the FCT. We are already working with our sister security agencies, with the local organizing committee, that will have a heat-free occasion. Once more, thank you, ” Wike added.
On his part, the chief of defence staff, CDS, Christopher Musa revealed that Nigeria will host the the upcoming African military games from 18th to 30th November 2024, which will bring together military personnel from across the African continent to compete in various sporting disciplines.
“This event, which is scheduled to hold from 18 to 30 November 2024, presents a unique opportunity for our Armed Forces to showcase their skills, foster camaraderie amongst participants, and strengthen military cooperation and partnership. It is also another means of our non-kinetic operations”, he said.
Musa said 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 our capabilities as a host nation.
In addition, that the games will provide 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.
According to him, we are currently finalizing preparations for the Games, including ensuring the necessary infrastructure and logistics support are in place to host this prestigious event.
“We want to sincerely thank His Excellency the FCT Minister for being a very wonderful good host. Like we said, we are very lucky to have him at this time when this thing is taking place because we know it is going to be world standard.
It is envisaged that this noble 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”, he said.
Therefore, he urge all well-meaning Nigerians and corporate organizations to show their support to the 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 have”, he added.