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• As MAX Air claims top spot
By Chukwuma Umeorah
The 2024 Abuja Guards Polo Club Tournament, which recently came to a close after two weeks if exhilarating action, has spotlighted the importance of making sports like polo more accessible to Nigerians across all social classes.
The competition which ran from December 4th to 15th at the Nigerian Army Polo Resort, in Abuja, delivered outstanding performances and moments of true sportsmanship. MAX Air emerged victorious in the Legislative Shield Trophy with a 4-3 win over STL, while FK3 edged out Musaco 6-5 to claim the Minister’s Cup. The closely contested matches reflected the immense talent within Nigeria’s polo scene but also highlighted the limited opportunities available for many young Nigerians to engage with the sport.
Beyond the on-field drama, the event highlighted the importance of fostering sportsmanship and unity through polo. The President of the Abuja Guards Polo Club Abubakar Abdullahi, emphasized the tournament’s role in promoting Nigerian sports culture. “We’ve truly come a long way, and I am proud of the success we’ve achieved so far. This tournament highlights what dedication and commitment can accomplish. I hope this inspires others to pursue their passions, no matter how unheard of,” he said.
The competition also drew attention to the broader economic and social benefits of sports sponsorships. Supported by major brands such as Jaiz Bank, Moniepoint, Fair Money, and First Bank, the tournament underscored the potential for private sector investment to drive sports development in Nigeria.
The Tournament Manager, Muktar Adhama credited sponsors and participants for their contributions, stating, “Your generous support and commitment were instrumental in creating an unforgettable experience for everyone.”
Promising a bigger edition in 2025, the organizers urged stakeholders to ensure that such efforts translate into meaningful investments in youth development and community outreach.
While the tournament celebrated elite players and corporate sponsorship, grassroots initiatives and public participation remained critical to broadening the sport’s appeal.
