Golden Aim: Nigerian Army Clinches Top Honours at Service Archery Competition

Published By Aisha Rabo On Apr 27, 2025

Golden Aim: Nigerian Army Clinches Top Honours at Service Archery Competition

By Ayshatu S. Rabo

The Nigerian Army has emerged victorious at the Armed Forces of Nigeria International Service Archery Competition, securing the overall title with an impressive haul of 20 medals — 14 gold, three silver, and three bronze.

Held in Abuja from Wednesday to Saturday, the championship brought together skilled archers from the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air Force, who competed fiercely across both men’s and women’s categories.

The Nigerian Navy finished in second place, amassing a total of 14 medals comprising one gold, six silver, and seven bronze. Meanwhile, the Nigerian Air Force took third, with six silver and seven bronze medals.

Archery, a sport that demands focus, precision, and control, served as more than just competition at the event. It symbolized a vital training tool to sharpen military readiness through non-kinetic means, enhancing mental, emotional, and physical fitness among the troops.

Speaking during the closing ceremony, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa represented by the Chief of Defence Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal Sayo Olatunde emphasised the significance of the event in addressing contemporary security challenges through alternative approaches.

“It is essential for our servicemen and women to maintain peak physical, mental, and emotional conditions to meet the nation’s demands,” Musa said. “Events like this not only hone marksmanship but also cultivate integrity, precision, intensity, innovation, and excellence.”

Highlighting the broader impact of the event, the CDS noted that archery encapsulates critical military values concentration, perseverance, and fortitude needed both on the battlefield and in national defense.

He praised the competitors for their outstanding performances, noting that the real victory lies in the experience gained and the strong bonds formed among participants.

“Beyond medals, it’s the collective spirit, resilience, and camaraderie that define this competition,” Musa remarked.

The Director of Sports, Defence Headquarters, AVM Nanjul Kumzhi, described the tournament as a celebration of not only skill and accuracy but also the enduring spirit of unity and sportsmanship within the Armed Forces.

According to Kumzhi, about 60 athletes from across the services participated, with the event also serving as a platform to select elite archers for future national and international competitions.

As the archers packed away their bows and arrows, one thing was clear — the Nigerian Army not only hit the bullseye on the targets but also in embodying the unwavering excellence and discipline the armed forces stand for.

Golden Aim: Nigerian Army Clinches Top Honours at Service Archery Competition