The prestigious Lagos Polo Club has instituted the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Cup into its calendar of events.
The development at the weekend therefore makes the CNS Cup one of the trophies to be competed for in tournaments by the Club.
Appreciating the Club for the development, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo, said his love for the game of Polo lies in the fact that it encourages team work and leadership skills among the players.
Gambo also spoke on the importance of Polo with regards to boosting a much-needed civil relationship with the populace, considering the nation’s security objectives.
His words: “Unlike individual sports, the game of Polo highlights the importance of building strong communication, developing leadership skills and team work among the players.
“These attributes are quite instructive regarding the development of camaraderie needed to foster synergy and team work among personnel.
“I am optimistic that the game would equally boost Nigerian Navy civil-military relations efforts, a valuable force multiplier to gain the support of the populace in pursuit of our national security objectives.”
The CNS disclosed that while the Nigerian Navy was just introduced in 2021 to the game by the 21 Guards Brigade Polo Club, the Navy Polo team competed in the Port Harcourt Polo tournament and worn its first trophy.
He added that “the British Naval officers introduced the game of Polo to Nigeria on the turf of the Lagos Polo Club. So, it would be right to say that the Lagos Polo Club and the Navy family have come a long way and I make bold to say that the relationship would only get better.”
The CNS pledged continued commitment to ensure that the relationship between the navy and the Lagos Polo Club is sustained at mutual benefits.
Gambo expressed appreciation to the President of the Lagos Polo Club, Mr. Ayo Olashoju, the club captain and other executive members, who organised the tournament.
