Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar has assured the Nigerian military and other security agencies of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to their welfare and working conditions.

Mr Abubakar gave the assurance on Tuesday in Abuja at the opening of the 8th edition of the General Assembly of the Organisation of Military Sports in Africa (OSMA).

“He appreciates the huge efforts and gross sacrifice that you all are making to keep our dear country of Nigeria, Africa and the world safe,” he said.

He also called on them to explore the opportunities provided by sports and other non-kinetic means to secure the nation amidst contending security challenges.

“Physically and mentally fit security personnel will endure tough weather, terrains or other stressful and harsh conditions,” Mr Abubakar added.

The minister said the timing of the organisation of the general assembly was auspicious as African military forces need close working relationships, especially in sharing information and personnel training.

“There are many ways for us to promote diplomacy.

“However, the most common method is to host international sporting events such as the Olympic and FIFA World Cup as well as participating and succeeding in the international sporting events hosted by other countries,” the minister explained.

He commended the efforts of the Chief of Defence Staff, the president of the Organisation of Military Sporting Africa and the local organising committee for putting together the continental event.

The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, said hosting the General Assembly was a sign that “Nigeria is respected all over the world.”

“It shows that Nigeria is well respected in the global world, and all the plans we have as military men are to project that this is part of our non-kinetic efforts, showing that all is not kinetic,” he said.

The president of OSMA, Major-General Abdullahi Maikano, said the 8th General Assembly was intended to, among other things, forge cohesion among member nations for enhanced understanding and good working relations.

Mr Maikano said the organisation was created in 1946, immediately after the Second World War, to unite soldiers in sports rather than on the battlefield. He added that 37 delegations from African countries attended the event.

(NAN)