NSC Chairman pledges support for All-African Military Games in Abuja

By Tosin Omojola

Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, visited Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), in Abuja on Wednesday.

During the visit, Dikko expressed appreciation for the CDS, whom he described as “an elder brother,” and recalled their longstanding friendship and shared alma mater in Kaduna State.

Dikko highlighted the role of sports in strengthening national security and unity, recalling a 2016 initiative by the League Management Company (LMC) that brought football back to Maiduguri after years of security challenges.

“As LMC chairman, we were deliberate about bringing football back to Maiduguri. We worked with then-Borno State Governor, His Excellency, Alhaji Kashim Shettima, and the security agencies, which led to the return of league football in Maiduguri,” Dikko said.

He recalled a landmark game between El Kanemi Warriors and Enyimba FC that drew around 20,000 fans inside the stadium, with an additional 30,000 outside, signaling a positive turning point for the city.

Responding to the Army Chief’s request, Dikko affirmed that the NSC would fully support the Nigerian Armed Forces in hosting the 2nd Edition of the All-African Military Games in Abuja from November 18th to 30th.

“We’re honored to have you here, and we are committed to making the All-African Military Games a success. Our expertise, alongside technical support from relevant federations, will ensure everything runs smoothly. We’re prepared to provide any logistical support needed,” Dikko assured.

Dikko emphasized the unifying power of sports and its potential to drive economic progress, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for grassroots sports development in Nigeria.

In his remarks, General Musa congratulated Dikko on his appointment as NSC chairman, expressing confidence in Dikko’s leadership for Nigerian sports. The CDS highlighted sports as a strategic tool for national security and youth empowerment.

“Sports go beyond competition; it’s a means to engage our youth, develop their talents, and create pathways to a better life. Growing up, many of us participated in the National Sports Festivals – I personally represented Sokoto State at the Kada ’83 and Kwara ’85 Games. We know how sports contribute to health and its implications for national security,” General Musa noted.

Gen. Musa then extended an invitation for Dikko to contribute his expertise to the upcoming All-African Military Games.

“Nigeria is proud to host the second edition of the All-African Military Games, and we want this to be your first major project. With your experience, reach, and expertise, we’re aiming for a Games that Africa will be proud of. We’ve done our part; now we look to you to elevate this edition,” he said.

Dikko assured Gen. Musa that the NSC would bring all resources to bear, ensuring the Games’ success and providing the necessary support for the military’s efforts.