By Joseph ETTA in Calabar
The Eastern Naval Command (ENC), comprising Cross River, Akwa Ibom and Rivers States, has commenced fitness training through sporting activities for its personnel in Calabar, the Cross River State capital.
The competition, which kicked off at the U. J. Esuene Stadium had Team Port Harcourt, Team Uyo, Team Calabar and Eastern Fleet Federal Oil Terminal, as participants.
The one-week sporting fiesta, according to the organisers, will feature games and sporting events such as table tennis, badminton, football and volleyball, among others.
While flagging off the sporting event, the Deputy Governor, Prof. Ivara Esu, said the rigour and stress of modern warfare had made it compelling for the officers and men to remain fit and alert.
Esu, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary on Security, Dr. Alfred Mboto said the commitment of the Command towards enhancing mental and physical fitness had yielded dividends, especially in the area of security, peace and prosperity of the region.
The ENC intra-command championship torch was ignited by the Command Sports Officer, Commander Sunday Ozah.
The torch went around the units of the Command before it was handed over to the FOC, who also handed it over to the representative of the Deputy Governor to herald the 2019 ENC championship open.
The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral David Adeniran, during the opening ceremony of the event, said the competition was designed to develop the physical and mental capacity of Naval personnel.