Former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo, has commended the Nigerian Navy for incorporating a polo tournament into activities marking its 70th Anniversary, describing the event as a fitting display of camaraderie and military values.
The Nigerian Navy added elegance, sportsmanship and cultural flair to its 70th Anniversary celebrations with a grand Polo Novelty Match held at the prestigious Guards Polo Club within the Nigerian Army Polo Resort in Abuja.
Team NNS Aradu emerged champions at the Guards Polo Club in Abuja.
The event, organised under the anniversary theme, Leveraging Technology for Enhanced Maritime Security in Africa, attracted senior military officers, former service chiefs, diplomats, traditional rulers, captains of industry.
Polo enthusiasts and other distinguished guests were also present in a celebration that blended sport, military camaraderie and national pride.
Speaking during his closing remarks, Vice Admiral Gambo praised the Nigerian Navy for including polo among activities commemorating the service’s platinum jubilee.
He noted that the tournament brought colour, dignity and excitement to the anniversary celebrations while fostering friendship and shared celebration among senior officers, players, polo enthusiasts and friends of the Nigerian Navy.
Describing polo as the “sport of kings,” the retired Naval Chief explained that the game represents more than horsemanship and athletic skill, stressing that it demands courage, discipline, precision, endurance, anticipation and effective teamwork between rider and horse.
Gambo congratulated the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, alongside officers and civilian staff of the Navy on the historic 70th anniversary, expressing pride in the institution’s steady growth as a critical instrument of national security, maritime governance and regional stability.
The event climaxed with the presentation of trophies to participating teams, while Team NNS Aradu claimed the coveted Star Trophy after defeating NNS Thunder by two goals to one.
