CISM President and Secretary General visit the Ethiopian Delegation to CISM

ADDIS-ABEBA (ETH) - On  21 January 2026, the President of the International Military Sports Council (CISM), Colonel Nilton Gomes Rolim Filho, together with the CISM Secretary General, Navy Captain Roberto Recchia, and the CISM Vice President for Africa and President of the African Military Sports Organization (OSMA), Major General Abdullahi Maikano, paid an official visit to the Ethiopian Delegation to CISM at the premises of Mechal Sports Club.

Upon their arrival, the distinguished guests were welcomed with full military honours, including a guard of honour and a ceremonial performance by the Defence Forces marching band.

During the visit, the delegation received detailed briefings on the historical foundation of Mechal Sports Club, its important contribution to the development of Ethiopian sport, the current organizational structure of the Ethiopian Delegation to CISM, and the level of progress achieved in recent years in the field of military sport.

The Chairman of the Mechal Sports Club Board, Dr. Seyfu Getahun, explained that the main objective of the visit was to allow the international leaders to observe first-hand the activities carried out by the Ethiopian Delegation to CISM at national, African and international levels. He also highlighted the contribution of the Ethiopian Defence Forces to sport and the efforts made to strengthen cooperation within CISM and OSMA, as well as preparations for upcoming symposiums and congresses.

For his part, CISM President Colonel Nilton Gomes Rolim Filho expressed his appreciation for the strong organization and professionalism of the Ethiopian Delegation to CISM and of Mechal Sports Club, underlining CISM’s willingness to further strengthen cooperation and continue working closely together for the development of military sport.

The Executive Director of Mechal Sports Club, Brigadier General Nuru Muzayin, stressed that the visit of high-ranking CISM and OSMA officials is an important opportunity to highlight the ongoing efforts in the sports sector. He added that it will also support preparations for upcoming international competitions, including the Half Marathon in Turkey and the Cross-Country Championship in Greece. Furthermore, he expressed hope that, in recognition of Ethiopia’s commitment and capacity, future international meetings and events could be entrusted to the country.

In addition to the official visit, the CISM and OSMA leaders also toured the Ethiopian National Museum and the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum.

(Source: CISM Media & Communication Department)