Vice Adm. Idi Abbas, Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), has lauded the CNS Spikers Volleyball Team for their impressive performance at a recent national tournament.
Abbas presented the commendation on Wednesday in Abuja when the team brought trophies they had recently won at the National Volleyball Premier League.
He described the team’s accomplishments as a source of pride for the Nigerian Navy and highlighted the role of sports in fostering discipline, fitness, and teamwork among personnel.
“I am truly honoured to welcome the CNS Spikers—our talented athletes who have represented the Nigerian Navy with distinction,” he said. “Your determination, resilience, and skill are commendable, and I encourage you to continue excelling.”
The CNS also urged senior team members to mentor junior athletes and reiterated the Navy’s commitment to supporting their development.
“Please ensure any requests or needs are communicated through the proper channels. We will review them and do our best to provide the necessary support,” he added.
Earlier, Navy Capt. Mark Abashi, Chairman of the CNS Spikers, detailed the team’s achievements, noting that both the male and female squads earned trophies.
The male team emerged as champions, while the female team finished second, narrowly behind the Nigerian Customs Service.
“Our athletes performed exceptionally, competing against clubs from across Nigeria, including teams from the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, Armed Forces, and various state representatives from Kaduna, Kano, Enugu, and Anambra,” Abashi said.
He added that the male team received seven awards and the female team seven awards as well, with the tournament sponsor awarding N5 million to the men’s team and N3 million to the women’s team as recognition for their achievements.
Abashi also proposed strengthening both squads by adding at least two new players per team and providing updated kits to enhance competitiveness.