AMTRIGG, Alhusna Shine At Ex-Naval Chief Gambo’s 60th Birthday Polo Exhibition

AMTRIGG and Alhusna polo teams emerged victorious at a commemorative exhibition held in honour of former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral A.Z. Gambo, to mark his 60th birthday.

The event, staged at the Nigerian Army Polo Resort/Guards Polo Club, featured two competitive fixtures. Alhusna defeated Kangal 2–0 in the medium-goal category, while AMTRIGG secured a 6–3 win over AZ Polo Team in the high-goal encounter.

Dignitaries, military officers and polo enthusiasts who attended the event described Gambo as a distinguished naval officer, patriot and passionate supporter of the sport. They praised his contributions to national security and his role in advancing polo within Nigeria.

Maj. Gen. Lucky Irabor (retd), former Chief of Defence Staff and Special Guest of Honour, said the occasion celebrated friendship, service and a shared love for polo. He noted that his long-standing relationship with Gambo dated back to their days at the Nigerian Defence Academy.

“Turning 60 is worthy of celebration. I wish him continued good health, peace and fulfilment,” Irabor said.

Chairman of the Nigerian Army Polo Association (NAPA), Maj. Gen. A.G. Laka, stated that the exhibition reflected the strong bond among military personnel and polo enthusiasts, adding that it was organised to honour Gambo’s legacy through sport and camaraderie.

Brig. Gen. Mustapha Onoyiveta (retd), a former Aide-de-Camp to late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, described the milestone as significant and offered prayers for Gambo’s continued prosperity and well-being.

Also speaking, Nasiru Danu, Chairman of NAPA’s Board of Trustees, commended Gambo’s commitment to equestrian sports, noting his role in strengthening the Nigerian Navy Polo Association.

Bashir Maidugu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Legal Research and Complaints (Office of the Vice-President), said the event highlighted the widespread respect Gambo enjoys across military and civilian circles.

Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Ali M. Ali, described polo as a unifying sport that fosters lasting relationships across diverse backgrounds.

Director-General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), Jibrin Baba Ndace, added that the large turnout underscored the goodwill Gambo has built over the years, while Senator Sani Musa commended his enduring support for initiatives that promote national unity.

In his remarks, Gambo expressed gratitude to organisers, colleagues and friends for the celebration. He reiterated that his passion for polo led to the establishment of the Nigerian Navy Polo Association during his tenure.

“Polo has deep roots in the Nigerian Navy, and I am proud to have contributed to reviving and growing the game within the service,” he said.

He also thanked members of the Nigerian Army Polo Resort/Guards Polo Club and participating teams for staging the exhibition in his honour. (NAN)