The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has identified sports as a strategic tool for promoting national unity, strengthening international partnerships and supporting Nigeria’s security objectives.
Shaibu stated this on Sunday during the closing ceremony of the International Open Archery Championship held at the Nigerian Army Conference Centre and Suites in Abuja.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the army chief said sporting activities could complement military operations by promoting peaceful engagement, building trust and strengthening relations between the military and civilians.
He noted that sports went beyond physical fitness and recreation, describing them as a means of promoting discipline, mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence among people from diverse backgrounds.
“Such engagements complement kinetic military operations by strengthening civil-military relations, promoting social cohesion and contributing to a holistic approach to national security,” the statement quoted the COAS as saying.
Shaibu commended the participating athletes for their discipline, dedication and sportsmanship, adding that international sporting competitions provided opportunities for talent development, cultural exchange and stronger partnerships among countries.
He also reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to supporting sporting initiatives that encourage healthy competition, public trust and national development.
The championship, organised by the Nigerian Archery Federation, attracted participants from across Africa and other countries.
Earlier, the federation’s president, Alhaji Mohammed Baba, commended the Chief of Army Staff and the Nigerian Army for supporting the competition and providing the venue.
Baba said partnerships between sporting organisations and institutions such as the Nigerian Army were essential to the development of archery and the promotion of international sporting cooperation.
