NSC Applauds Successful Maiden Inter-Service Shooting Championship in Abuja
Oru Leonard
The National Sports Commission has commended the successful hosting of the maiden Inter-Service Shooting Championship, organised as part of activities marking the 70th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy, describing the tournament as a significant boost for the growth of shooting sports and military collaboration in Nigeria.
The championship, held in Abuja, brought together athletes from the Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Army, and Nigerian Air Force in what organisers described as the first-ever inter-service shooting competition in the country.
Speaking during the event, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, praised the Nigeria Shooting Sport Federation for organising the novelty competition, noting that it created a platform for healthy rivalry while strengthening friendship, goodwill, and camaraderie among participants and stakeholders.
According to the Naval Chief, sports remain a vital instrument for promoting unity, discipline, and teamwork within the Armed Forces and across the country.
The championship featured nine events, including Point .22 Rifle and Pistol 50 metres, Point .32 Pistol 50 metres, Point .177 Calibre Pistol and Rifle, 10-metre Air Gun, as well as Air Rifle and Air Pistol events for both men and women.
Vice Admiral Abbas also took part in live round Air Rifle, Shotgun, and Electronic shooting events at 25 and 50 metres, stating that the competition was organised not only to celebrate seven decades of the Nigerian Navy’s service to the nation since 1956, but also to reinforce jointness and cooperation among the Armed Forces.
Technical officials at the championship noted that the variety of disciplines tested the versatility of participants while ensuring compliance with international safety and scoring standards.
At the end of the competition, the Nigerian Navy emerged overall winners with five gold, two silver, and two bronze medals. The Nigerian Army finished second with three gold, one silver, and five bronze medals, while the Nigerian Air Force placed third with one gold, six silver, and two bronze medals.
President of the Nigeria Shooting Sport Federation, Commodore Mohammed Sagir Shettima, described the championship as a historic milestone for both the Armed Forces and the development of shooting sports in Nigeria.
He commended the Chief of Naval Staff for approving shooting sports as part of the Navy’s anniversary activities and applauded his marksmanship after successfully clearing five targets in five shots.
Commodore Shettima added that the tournament would create more opportunities for military personnel to participate in shooting sports and represent Nigeria at international competitions. He also urged retired gunnery instructors and weapons specialists to support the federation as coaches, armourers, and technical officials.
The federation further appreciated the support of the National Sports Commission, the Nigeria Olympic Committee, and the Nigerian Navy 70th Anniversary Organising Committee for contributing to the success of the championship.
Among dignitaries present at the event were President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, Habu Gumel, President of the Archery Federation of Nigeria, Mohammed Baba Abdullahi, alongside senior military officers and sports administrators.
A souvenir of honour was also presented to Vice Admiral Abbas in recognition of his commitment to excellence, maritime security, and national development.
