NSC Backs Nigeria's Bid to Host World Polo Championship Qualifiers in Abuja

Posted : 13 October 2026

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has pledged to explore possible support for Nigeria's hosting of the World Polo Championship qualifiers in Abuja, as the country prepares to welcome international competitors in November.

The qualifiers are scheduled to take place from November 9 to 16, 2026, at the Guards Polo Club in Abuja. Host nation Nigeria is expected to compete against India, Iran and Pakistan in the tournament.

NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko disclosed the commission's position during a meeting with Nigerian Polo Association (NPA) Chairman Suleman Abubakar in Abuja. Abubakar briefed the commission on preparations and requested institutional support for the championship.

Dikko said the commission would consider the association's requests within its available resources. He also stressed that hosting an international sporting event should be treated as a national responsibility that requires cooperation among relevant stakeholders.

The NSC chairman highlighted the economic opportunities associated with major sporting competitions. He explained that sporting events can generate business for local traders, create employment and attract visitors, while improving Nigeria's international image.

Dikko said the commission views sports as a tool for economic development rather than simply a means of organising competitions. He urged the NPA to submit detailed proposals outlining its requirements so that the commission could assess possible areas of assistance.

Abubakar described Nigeria's selection to host the qualifiers as an important milestone for polo in the country. He attributed the development to the association's efforts and the growing international recognition of Nigerian polo.

According to the NPA chairman, Nigeria belongs to Zone E of the Federation of International Polo, which comprises 12 countries. However, he said only four countries in the zone had reached the required standard to compete at the 14-goal handicap level.

The championship is expected to provide Nigeria with an opportunity to demonstrate its organisational capacity and compete against established polo nations. It could also strengthen the country's profile within the international polo community.

Abubakar said the association was seeking support in several areas, including institutional assistance, resources and the participation of relevant authorities in hosting the event. He emphasised the importance of collaboration in delivering a championship of international significance.

The NPA chairman also revealed plans to establish a National Polo Development Centre in Abuja. The proposed facility is intended to serve as a centre of excellence for polo in Africa, supporting training, talent development and international cooperation.

Abubakar added that the centre could create more opportunities for young people to participate in the sport. He stressed the importance of combining sporting development with education to ensure that young athletes maintain a balance between their academic and athletic commitments.

With the qualifiers approaching, the proposed support from the NSC could help strengthen preparations for the competition. Successful hosting would provide Nigeria with an opportunity to promote polo, stimulate local economic activity and expand its presence on the international sporting stage.

NSC Backs Nigeria's Bid to Host World Polo Championship Qualifiers in Abuja

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