By Victor Akaa, Abuja
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS),Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai has inaugurated the Board of Trustee (BOT) of the Nigerian Army Polo team with a charge to be diligent and also ensure it’s attain higher heights to be able to compete internationally.
The Army boss gave the charge during the inauguration ceremony of the committee members in Army headquarters in Abuja.
According to Gen. Butatai, military officers both serving and retired with credible and vast experience , zeal, passion, expertise and skills in sport were selected to be part of the team to drive the prestigious and noble Polo games to woe global participation.
“we are looking at participating in all global Polo competitions.
“The process has begun by getting horses an handlers, players so we can fully start and promote the game”.
He hinted that, the polo game which was introduced into the country by NA has hitherto suffered unnecessary hitches hence the need to give it a necessary attention it desires.
“Polo has been a long standing military Endeavour. We must revive the Polo game to the standards for which this country is known for.
“Over the years, because of dwindling participation of Nigerian Army in the game, the facilities which are located on Army land have dwindled and taken over by other groups and persons”. He explained.
Buratai who also promised to support and co-operate with the committee members urged them to fully co-operate with the Nigerian Polo Federation which is the national body and other interested partners to put the game in the rightful place.
“We want to revive the sport. We will be getting jockeys and improving every of the existing facilities. We want to revive interest in the sport and take it to a higher height.
“We are willing to cooperate with the National body of the Polo Association, and any other interest, including the private sector.
“We call for sponsors to also partner with us to develop this very important, prestigious and noble game of Nigerian Army Polo Club”. He expressed
In his response, the Nigerian Army Polo Association Board of Trustees Chairman, Col Dangiwa Umar (rtd) represented by Gen Mohammed Garba (rtd),thanked the COAS for the honour done to them and promised to maintain the confidence repose in them.
He however dispelled the impression that the game was meant for the rich people saying membership is based on the interest.
He assured to put in their best to not only enhance the discipline the Army is known for but also promote the game to the rightful place.
Members of the committee inaugurated include the former Governor of Kaduna state, Col. Dangiwa Umar (rtd) is the chairman, other members include Maj. Gen. Mohammed Garba (rtd), Maj. Gen. MSA Aliyu, Brig. Gen. KA Kazir, and Alhaji Nasir Danu.
