As part of activities marking its 70th anniversary celebration, the Nigerian Navy at the weekend organised a polo novelty match in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
The colourful event, held at the Guards Polo Club, brought together naval personnel, dignitaries, and members of the public to celebrate seven decades of maritime service and the Navy’s significant contributions to national security.
Speaking at the event, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibrahim Abbas, described the Nigerian Navy as a formidable maritime force and a critical pillar of Nigeria’s national security architecture.
According to him, Nigeria’s maritime environment remains central to the nation’s oil and gas resources, international trade, fisheries, and other strategic economic activities. He noted that the significant reduction in maritime insecurity within the Gulf of Guinea, alongside the Navy’s remarkable progress over the past seven decades, was built on the discipline, resilience, teamwork, and sound judgment of its personnel.
Vice Admiral Abbas further likened these values to the game of polo, noting that success in the sport depends not only on individual brilliance but also on coordination, mutual trust, situational awareness, and the ability to make decisive actions under pressure.
He said the tournament was a fitting component of the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary celebrations because it reflects many of the values that have enabled the service to fulfil its constitutional responsibilities and contribute significantly to maritime security, national development, and regional stability.
Drawing inspiration from former South African President Nelson Mandela, Abbas reminded guests of the unifying power of sports.
Quoting Mandela’s famous words that “Sport has the power to change the world,” he said sports transcend competition and trophies by creating opportunities to inspire people and strengthen relationships across institutions, generations, and communities.
He added that the tournament represented more than horsemanship and competitive skill, describing it as a celebration of comradeship, fair play, and enduring friendships forged through sports.
The Naval Chief also encouraged participating teams to compete with passion, discipline, and respect for the rules of the game. He stressed that while victory remains desirable, the greater value of the event lies in the goodwill, unity, and esprit de corps it promotes among participants and spectators.
One of the highlights of the event was a closely contested encounter in which Team NNS Unity defeated Team NNS Centenary 3–2.
In another thrilling game, Team NNS Aradu edged Team NNS Thunder 3–2 to emerge victorious.
Winning teams received awards as guests celebrated the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie displayed throughout the tournament.
In his congratulatory remarks, immediate past Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo (Rtd.), commended the passion, skill, and dedication displayed by all participating teams. He also congratulated the Nigerian Navy on attaining the milestone achievement.
The event concluded with the transfer of captainship of the Navy Polo Team from Rear Admiral S.I. Dantsoho to Navy Captain Arma Ya’u Yusuf, bringing the colourful celebration to a memorable close.
