By: Monday Danladi, Bauchi
In an effort to promote Military, civilian relationships, 33 Artillery Brigade, Nigerian Army, Bauchi successful hosted a one-day friendly sports meeting among Volleyball Teams in Bauchi.
The Volleyball competition was aimed at fostering cordiality and sportsmanship between men in uniform and the host communities.
Speaking at the competition, Bauchi State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Auwal Mohammed Jatau described it as truly commendable the open-door policy of the 33 Artillery Brigade for engaging the state youths in friendly sporting activities.
Auwal Jatau commended particularly the brigade commander, Brigade General Emmanuel Egbe for sponsoring a volleyball tournament between military and civilian youths held at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, Bauchi yesterday.
According to him, the tournament exemplified the incredible power of sports towards bringing people together in postering not only competition, but friendship among the people.
Represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff, Government House, Eng Haruna Muhammad Barde, the Deputy Governor said, “It is heartening to see our athletes showcasing their skills and dedication embodying the spirit of teamwork and resilience”.
He told the Brigade Commander, “Your initiative has significantly strengthened the bond between military and good people of Bauchi state, engaging our communities through a bond like this is a key to enhance the much needed trust and understanding which are vital for peace and security”.
The Deputy Governor further stated, “I extend my heart-felt greetings to all the participants gathered here, united by our shared commitment to promote unity in sportsmanship and physical fitness in our dear Bauchi state”.
He presented a Youth Development Award of honour to the Commander, 33 Artillery Brigade, Brigadier General Emmanuel Egbe in recognition of his tireless efforts to empower, inspire and foster good Civil Military Relationship in Bauchi State, courtesy the Bauchi State Volleyball.
He reassured the 33 Artillery Brigade and all other stakeholders that the administration of Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed is committed towards supporting initiatives, including sporting activities by the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in an effort to continue promoting peaceful co-existence and unity.
According to him, “The administration in particular recognizes the vital role that sports play in our society, hence the need to continue to provide the necessary support to ensure that an initiative like this tournament flourishes by building a stronger foundation for peace and security in Bauchi state”.
Auwal Jatau explained that the brigade’s commitment to safeguarding the state communities allowed the government to focus on development, progress and the prosperity of the people in a secure and peaceful environment.
He therefore urged the brigade to remember that the values of discipline and respect that are being cultivated through sports are the same values that are threatening the community, and reminded the tournament that through collaboration and mutual support greatness can be achieved.
In a vote of thanks, the Garrison Commander of the 33 Artillery Brigade, Lieutenant Colonel Abdulrahman Modibbo appreciated Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed for his government’s continued support of the brigade, and commended each and every individual for the successful conduct of the tournament.
The participating teams: Wuntin Dada and Yalwa Volleyball teams went away with cash tokens as 4th and 3rd positions while Shadawanka Barracks and Railway Volleyball teams clinched the 2nd and 1st positions respectively.
Individual players who distinguished themselves in the tournament also smiled home with cash tokens while the most valuable player was presented with a cash token and an award.
