economic impact will depend on visitor numbers, spending patterns and the level of participation from local businesses.
National Sports Commission Considers Support for Tournament
Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, has indicated that the federal sports body could provide support for the successful organisation of the championship.
Dikko made this known during a meeting in Abuja with the Chairman of the Nigerian Polo Association (NPA), Suleman Abubakar, who briefed him on preparations for the event.
According to Dikko, sporting competitions have the potential to contribute to economic development beyond the activities taking place on the field.
He explained that international tournaments could generate income for businesses, create temporary employment opportunities and promote Nigeria internationally.
The NSC chairman noted that even small businesses operating around competition venues, including food vendors and beverage sellers, could benefit from increased visitor activity.
He encouraged the Nigerian Polo Association to submit detailed proposals outlining areas where government assistance would be required.
Dikko assured the association that the commission would review its requests and consider possible support within available resources.
Nigeria’s 120-Year Polo History Gains International Recognition
Speaking during the meeting, NPA Chairman Suleman Abubakar described Nigeria’s selection to host the qualifiers as an important achievement for the country’s polo development.
Abubakar explained that organised polo has existed in Nigeria for more than 120 years, with the sport maintaining a strong presence in different parts of the country.
He said Nigeria belongs to Zone E of the Federation of International Polo, which consists of 12 member countries.
According to him, only four countries in the zone currently meet the requirements to participate at the 14-goal handicap level.
The association chairman attributed Nigeria’s hosting opportunity to sustained efforts to improve the sport’s international standing.
He also appealed for greater institutional cooperation to ensure adequate preparations for the tournament.
Abuja Could Benefit from Increased Sports Tourism
Hosting the qualifiers offers Abuja an opportunity to expand its tourism appeal beyond government activities, diplomatic engagements and corporate travel.
International sporting events can attract visitors who spend money on accommodation, transportation, shopping, entertainment and local services.
For businesses operating near the Guards Polo Club and other parts of the capital, the championship could create additional commercial opportunities during the eight-day period.
The tournament could also strengthen Abuja’s reputation as a destination for international sporting competitions, potentially encouraging future events and private-sector partnerships.
Nigerian Polo Association Plans National Development Centre
As part of its longer-term development strategy, the Nigerian Polo Association has announced plans to establish a National Polo Development Centre in Abuja.
The proposed facility would provide a dedicated environment for player training, coaching, talent development and international collaboration.
Abubakar said the association hopes to develop the centre into a major polo training destination in Africa.
The project is also expected to create opportunities for younger Nigerians interested in participating in the sport.
He stressed that sporting development should complement education, allowing young athletes to pursue their academic ambitions alongside competitive polo.
The proposed centre remains a development plan, with its implementation dependent on securing the necessary funding, facilities and institutional partnerships.
World Polo Qualifiers Set for November 9
With preparations continuing, attention is turning to the November championship and the opportunities it could create for Nigeria’s sporting and tourism sectors.
The eight-day competition will bring Nigeria, India, Iran and Pakistan together in Abuja, giving local polo enthusiasts an opportunity to witness international action.
For the Nigerian Polo Association, the tournament represents an opportunity to promote the sport and strengthen international relationships.
For Abuja, it could provide another platform to attract visitors, showcase local businesses and build a stronger reputation as a destination for international sports tourism.
Emmanuel Bassey is a Financial Expert that has worked in the Banking and Finance Industry for over 15+ years across different banks in Nigeria
