The Managing Director of Total Nigeria Plc, Jean-Philippe Torres, has said that the company’s football tournament initiative for the staff of the company, tagged MD’s Cup, is aimed at work-life-balance.
Speaking at the finals of the 5th edition of the event held at Onikan Stadium in Lagos where the Western Territory emerged as champions, Torres said that the company put together the football tournament to encourage sporting activities among employees adding that the bonding and camaraderie that come from participation would override the competitive spirit of winning ‘at all cost’.
“The tournament is a part of the company’s work-life-balance initiative, put together to encourage sporting activities among employees. Apart from being a lot of fun and entertainment, sporting events like this offer several health benefits to the physical and mental well-being of participants. It is our belief that a healthy workforce is a prerequisite for productivity and sustainable growth”, said Torres.
The theme of the game, beyond football is to emphasize the company’s commitment to excellence and team work in all undertakings.
“Beyond the issue of productivity, the MD’s Cup presents a good opportunity to bring together employees from different locations and divisions to interact with one another outside their normal work environment. This is expected to encourage and strengthen cordial relationships and promote friendship among employees”, he added.
The maiden edition of the tournament was held in May 2009 at the same Onikan Stadium, Lagos, where the Northern Territory emerged the winner. The Northern Territory Team also won the 2nd edition held in 2011 while the Head office team won the 3rd and 4th editions in 2013 and 2015.
FRANK UZUEGBUNAM
