By Anan Geolengs
AMTRIGG and Alhusna polo teams both emerged champions in a special commemorative polo exhibition match in honour of the former Chief of Air Staff (CNS) Vice Admiral AZ Gambo 60th birthday anniversary.
The exhibition held at the Nigerian Army Polo Resort/Guards Polo Club saw Alhusna defeat Kangal 2-0 in the medium goal category, while AMTRIGG beat AZ Polo Team 6-3 in the high-goal event.
Polo enthusiasts who spoke to journalists on the sidelines of the event, described Gambo as a distinguished naval officer, patriot and sports lover whose contributions to national security and polo development remained commendable.
Maj. Gen. Lucky Irabor, former Chief of Defence Staff and Special Guest of Honour, said the event celebrated friendship, service, and shared passion for polo.
Irabor said he attended to honour Gambo, whom he had known since their days at the Nigerian Defence Academy.
“Gambo and I have shared years of friendship and service. Turning 60 is worthy of celebration, and I wish him good health, peace, and fulfilment,” he said.
Maj. Gen. A.G. Laka, Chairman of the Nigerian Army Polo Association (NAPA), said the event was organised by the club to celebrate Gambo’s legacy through sports and camaraderie.
Laka said the event reflected the strong bond among military officers and polo enthusiasts across the country.
Brig Gen. Mustapha Onoyiveta (Rtd), the Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, said he joined colleagues and friends to celebrate one of their own on the milestone occasion.
Onoyiveta, President of 36 Regular Course, prayed for continued good health, long life, and prosperity for the former naval chief.
“We are grateful to Almighty Allah for preserving him to celebrate 60 years in good health and honour,” he said.
Nasiru Danu, the Chairman, Board of Trustees of NAPA, described Gambo as a committed sports enthusiast whose passion had strengthened the growth of polo in Nigeria.
Danu said the former CNS remained instrumental to the development of the Nigerian Navy Polo Association and the promotion of equestrian sports.
Bashir Maidugu, the Senior Special Assistant to the President (Legal Research and Complaints Matters in the Office of the Vice president), praised Gambo’s dedication to national service and his commitment to unity through sports.
Maidugu said the event demonstrated the respect and admiration the former naval chief enjoyed among military and civilian communities.
Ali M. Ali, the Managing Director of NAN, said he attended to honour a longtime friend and celebrate the unifying power of polo.
Ali described polo as a game that attracted people from different backgrounds despite its elite status.
“Polo brings people together. It is always an opportunity to reconnect with friends and celebrate enduring relationships,” he said.
He prayed for more prosperous years for the celebrant and expressed hope of joining him in the “sixth floor” soon.
Jibrin Baba Ndace, the Director-General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), described Gambo as an accomplished officer whose contributions to national development remained significant.
Ndace said the large turnout at the event reflected the goodwill and respect the former CNS had earned over the years.
Sani Musa, a friend of the celebrant, commended Gambo for maintaining strong relationships and supporting initiatives that promoted unity and national development.
Musa wished the former naval chief continued success, sound health, and happiness in the years ahead.
Responding, Gambo expressed appreciation to organisers, colleagues, and friends for the surprise celebration in his honour.
He said his passion for polo inspired the establishment of the Nigerian Navy Polo Association during his tenure as Chief of Naval Staff.
“Polo has deep roots in the Nigerian Navy, and I am proud to contribute to reviving and growing the game within the service,” he said.
Gambo specially thanked members of the Nigerian Army Polo Resort/Guards Polo Club and participants for honouring him with the special commemorative exhibition match on his 60th birthday anniversary.
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