The Nigerian Army has reinforced the role of sports in military preparedness through the Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 Polo Tournament, promoting teamwork, leadership, and esprit de corps as key drivers of operational effectiveness and mission success.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, Team LAGBAJA emerged champions of the NADCEL 2026 Polo Tournament, an event organised as part of activities commemorating the 163rd Anniversary of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt.
The Army leadership said the tournament reflects the Service’s enduring commitment to developing physically fit, mentally resilient and highly cohesive personnel capable of responding effectively to Nigeria’s evolving security environment.
The statement noted that beyond competition, the polo tournament serves as a platform for strengthening camaraderie, discipline and healthy rivalry among personnel while reinforcing values that contribute to professionalism and operational excellence across the Nigerian Army.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, presented the championship trophy to Team LAGBAJA at the conclusion of the tournament and commended all participating teams for demonstrating discipline, determination and outstanding sportsmanship throughout the competition.
The Nigerian Army added that integrating sporting activities into the NADCEL programme underscores its holistic approach to force development by promoting leadership, cohesion, resilience and mission focus in support of its constitutional responsibility to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national security.
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