Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has pledged the support of the FCT Administration for the successful hosting of the African Military Games scheduled to take place in the FCT in November of this year.
Barrister Wike pledged when a delegation from the Defence Headquarters led by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Abuja on Wednesday, October 9, 2024.
According to the Director of Press (Office of the Honourable Minister), Anthony Ogunleye, the Minister described the event as a welcome development, saying it will provide an opportunity to showcase Nigeria and the FCT to Africa and the world.
He further stated that the Games would also help boost economic activities and showcase the positive aspects of Nigerian society.
“This African Military Games coming up in November in Abuja will also showcase the city of Abuja, where over 40 countries will be participating. It’s a welcome development. One is the economic activities; two, it will also show that Nigeria and Abuja are safe.
“Sometimes, as you said, people have an impression from the outside without even having first-hand information. So, I believe that when they come here, they will go back home with a different narrative.
“On our part, we have no choice but to give you the necessary support because our city will host this international game.
“So, we want to assure you that we will fully participate and give you all the necessary support so that it will be a successful event. Whatever you think we can do, do not hesitate to tell us quickly”, the FCT Minister stressed.
The FCT Minister also commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their role in fighting insecurity in the FCT and the campaign against insurgency in other parts of the country and pledged the continued support of the FCT Administration to the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Earlier in his remark, the Chief of Defence Staff said they were on a visit to inform the FCT Minister about the African Military Games holding in the FCT in November and solicited the FCT Minister’s support to ensure a hitch-free event.
The Chief of Defence Staff said that armed forces from about 40 countries would participate in the African Military Games for one week in the FCT, adding that it would also provide an opportunity to correct some erroneous impressions about the country.
The CDS further commended the Minister for providing infrastructure in the FCT and pledged the Armed Forces’ support for the security of lives and property in the nation’s capital.
He said, “We appreciate you and want to let you know that the Armed Forces is here to support you in whatever way we can. We must ensure that the FCT continues to grow without any threat within or outside of the FCT.
“We want to assure you that we are here, entirely with you in every aspect, to support you and ensure your success.
“We are very happy with all that you have been doing for the FCT and the country at large”.
Present during the visit were the Chief of Defence Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal SO Olatunde, Chairman LOC for the Africa Military Games, Air Vice Marshal AT Marquis, Principal General Staff Officer to the CDS, Brig Gen Azuikpe, Director Defence Information, Brig Gen Gusau, Commander Defence Headquarters Garrison, Brig Gen Okpodu, Chief of Staff to the Minister, Hon. Chidi Amadi, the Ag Head of Service FCTA, Mrs. Grace Adayilo, the Executive Secretary, FCDA, Engr. Hadi Shehu Ahmed, the Mandate Secretary, Social Development Secretariat, Hon. Ibrahim Aminu, the SSA on Administration, Dr. Samuel Atang, the Solicitor General, Barr. GG Bawa, the Director of Security Services, Mr. Adamu Gwary, and other senior officials of the FCTA.
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