Nigerian Military Vows To Excel In Sports, Re-elects OSMA President
By Aysha S. Rabo
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has pledged to restore the Nigerian military’s glory in international sports competitions.
He made this promise at the end of the 8th General Assembly of the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa (OSMA), held in Abuja on Friday.
He said the military would use the platforms of OSMA, CISM, Olympics, Commonwealth, All African and Invictus Games to showcase their talents and achievements.
He also said sports was a vital tool for enhancing unity, cooperation, and non-kinetic efforts in tackling security challenges in the country.
He commended the delegates from 30 African countries for re-electing Maj.-Gen. Abdullahi Maikano, a Nigerian army officer, as the OSMA president for another four years.
“This is a sign of confidence in Nigeria and its armed forces, and will like to assure you of our continued support and collaboration.”
The OSMA president, Maj.-Gen. Maikano, thanked the CDS and the service chiefs for their backing, and the delegates for their commitment to the organisation.
He said OSMA was aimed at fostering bond and friendship among the African militaries through sports, rather than war.
The Chief of Nigerian Delegation and Director of Sports, DHQ, AVM Abidemi Marquis, said it was historic that a Nigerian was leading OSMA for two consecutive terms.
He said Nigeria was ready to host the African military games in November, with about 3000 athletes and officials expected to participate.
The President of CISM, Col. Nilton Rolim, expressed confidence in the future of Africa in international military sports.
The closing ceremony of the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa (OSMA) 8th General Assembly (GA) was earlier declared open by the Honourable Minister of Defence, Alhaji Abubakar Badaru during the week is scheduled to hold on Friday 1 March 2024 at the Nicon Luxury Hotels.
Nigerian Military Vows To Excel In Sports, Re-elects OSMA President