By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has praised 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 competition as a significant step towards the development of shooting sports and stronger collaboration among the Armed Forces.
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 tournament in Nigeria.
Speaking at the event, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, commended the Nigeria Shooting Sport Federation (NSSF) for organising the novelty competition, noting that the championship fostered healthy rivalry while promoting friendship, goodwill, and camaraderie among participants and stakeholders.
He said sports remain an important tool for promoting unity, discipline, and teamwork within the military and the wider society.
The competition 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, who also participated in live round Air Rifle, Shotgun, and Electronic shooting events at 25 and 50 metres, said the championship was organised not only to celebrate 70 years of the Nigerian Navy’s service since 1956, but also to strengthen jointness and cooperation among the Armed Forces.
Technical officials at the championship noted that the various disciplines tested the versatility of participants while ensuring adherence to 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 placed second with three gold, one silver, and five bronze medals, while the Nigerian Air Force finished third with one gold, six silver, and two bronze medals.
President of the Nigeria Shooting Sport Federation, Commodore Mohammed Sagir Shettima, described the tournament as a historic milestone for the Armed Forces and the growth of shooting sports in Nigeria.
He commended the Chief of Naval Staff for approving the inclusion of shooting sports in the Navy’s anniversary celebrations and praised his marksmanship after successfully clearing five targets in five shots.
According to Shettima, the championship would create more opportunities for military personnel to participate in shooting sports and represent Nigeria at international competitions. He also called on retired gunnery instructors and weapons specialists to support the federation as coaches, armourers, and technical officials.
The federation also 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.
Dignitaries at the event included the President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, Habu Gumel, President of the Archery Federation of Nigeria, Mohammed Baba Abdullahi, as well as senior military officers and sports administrators.
A souvenir of honour was presented to the Chief of Naval Staff in recognition of his commitment to excellence, maritime security, and national development.
