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The Nigerian Army is deepening its partnership with World Archery Africa and the Nigeria Archery Federation (NAFED) as part of efforts to promote sports development, strengthen civil-military relations and enhance Nigeria’s profile in continental sporting competitions.
The partnership is also aimed at improving physical readiness and technical capacity, while supporting Nigeria’s ability to host major international and continental archery events.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, stated this on Thursday, October 8, 2026, when he received a joint delegation from World Archery Africa and NAFED at Army Headquarters, Abuja.
The delegation was led by the President of NAFED, Mr Mohammed Baba Abdullahi.
Shaibu said archery was particularly relevant to the military because of its emphasis on focus, precision, discipline and marksmanship, qualities that are central to military training and operational effectiveness.
The COAS directed the Chief of Training to commence planning for the proposed African Indoor Archery Championship, which is expected to be hosted at the Nigerian Army Corps of Artillery facility.
He said the Army’s involvement in archery demonstrated its commitment to developing sporting talent and creating opportunities for personnel to excel at national and international competitions.
The initiative, according to him, would also contribute to strengthening the relationship between the military and the civilian population through sporting activities.
Speaking earlier, the NAFED President, Mohammed Baba Abdullahi, commended the Nigerian Army for its growing support for archery development in Nigeria.
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Abdullahi particularly praised the Army for constructing what he described as Africa’s first dedicated standard archery pitch within a military formation, saying the facility had significantly enhanced the development of the sport in the country.
He disclosed that military archers recently won all of Nigeria’s medals at the African Championship, highlighting the contribution of the Nigerian Army to the country’s performance in the sport.
Also speaking, the President of World Archery Africa, Mr Amine, commended the Nigerian Army for its sponsorship, provision of facilities and hospitality to archery stakeholders.
He appealed to the Army to support Nigeria’s hosting of Africa’s inaugural Indoor Archery Championship, describing the proposed event as an opportunity to further develop the sport on the continent.
Amine said the partnership between the Nigerian Army, World Archery Africa and NAFED could serve as a model for sports development and institutional collaboration across Africa.
The proposed championship is expected to further position Nigeria as a destination for major continental archery competitions while providing an opportunity for Nigerian athletes and military personnel to gain greater exposure and experience at the highest level.
The Army’s renewed commitment to archery comes as part of its broader efforts to promote physical fitness, discipline, sporting excellence and stronger engagement with civil society.
