Rachael Ramon
As part of activities marking the end of Operation Crocodile Smile lll of the Nigerian Army, troops of 146th battalion, Bonny in Rivers State, have engaged members of the host community in a novelty match.
The OPDS OF the battalion defeated a team of Bonny youth federation 3-2, in a football match that took place at the Community Primary School, Finima Field in Bonny Island.
In an interview with journalists after the game, the Commanding Officer of 146th Battalion, Lieutenant-Colonel JERRY MAIGARI, who was represented by Captain Bamidele Fadokun said the match was organised to enhance civil-military relationship in the area.
Lieutenant-Colonel MAIGARI explained that it also afforded troops the opportunity to promote mutual cooperation and comradeship between the military and host communities, commending display of high standard of sportsmanship, physical fitness and determination by participants.
Chairman of Bonny Local Government and captains of both teams expressed happiness for the match, stressing that such activities will help reduce youth restiveness, cultism and other crimes in the area.
At the end of the novelty match, which was in line with the vision of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General TUKUR BURATAI to foster a cordial relationship between the military and civilians, jerseys and gifts were presented to Bonny and Finima football team.
