Chief of Naval Staff, (CNS) Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo says the game of Polo is an effective tool for developing synergy between the Armed Forces and other security agencies.
He made the remarks during the Chief of Naval Staff Annual Conference (CONSAC) 2021 Polo Tournament and dinner organised in his honour by the Nigerian Army Polo Association (NAPA) on Sunday in Abuja.
The National Daily reports that the event which took place at the Nigerian Army Polo Resort was sponsored by Nasiru Danu, the patron of Casiva stables and member, board of trustees, NAPA.
The tournament and dinner was the high point of the just concluded Chief of Naval Staff Annual Conference 2021 in Kano.
The CNS Annual Conference with the theme “Enhancing Nigeria’s Maritime Safety for Improved National Prosperity” which began on Wednesday ended on Sunday.
Gambo said that the game of Polo generally perceived as the game of Kings was a team sport played with joy to demonstrate courage, endurance and strength.
“Notably as a sport, the game of Polo helps to build strong communication, leadership skills and teamwork among team mates.
“These attributes truly validate the objective of this year’s CONSAC which is to develop synergy between the Services of the Armed Forces, as well as other security agencies and stakeholders in security,” he said.
He said that the Nigerian Navy remained committed to the physical and mental well being of its workforce hence, the reintroduction of the weekly sports activities to help check stress related health concerns.
“Recall that on Saturday, we had a golf kitty in Kano where golfers displayed their individual skills on the golf course.
“I believe in no time, some of us on this side of the pitch will join this league of elite Polo players.
“Also, I am optimistic that with the support of our sponsors, we can leverage this opportunity to consider the establishing of the Nigerian Navy Polo team.
“Expectedly, this will position our Polo team to compete with other teams in furtherance of Nigerian Navy inter-agency cooperation efforts.
“,We are indeed very grateful for this synergy between us, the Nigerian Army, and of course the Nigerian Airforce as well as other sister security agencies which was exemplified today,” he said.
The Naval boss expressed his gratitude to the sponsor and organisers as well as guests who graced the event.
“I am humbled by the array of eminent personalities who took out time to grace the maiden edition of this tournament and award dinner.
“We remain indebted to you for the honour done to the Nigerian Navy.
“It is my hope that you will continue to support the Nigerian Navy in pursuit of her constitutional mandate,” he said.
In the tournament played earlier, a brace by Mohammed Bello ensured that NNS Andoni defeated NNS Karaduwa 2- 0 to lift the Chief of Defence Staff Cup.
NNS Centenary whipped NNS Unity 5 to 2 goals to win the Chief of Naval Staff Cup, while Brid. Gen. Laka-led NNS Thunder beat Sen. Haliru Jika-led NNS Okpabana team 7 to 4 goals to emerge champions of the President’s Cup.