The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, has pledged the commission’s support for the successful hosting of the World Polo Championship qualifiers in Abuja, describing the tournament as an opportunity to boost Nigeria’s sports economy and international profile.

Dikko gave the assurance when the Chairman of the Nigerian Polo Association (NPA), Suleman Abubakar, led a delegation of the association on a courtesy visit to him in Abuja.

Nigeria will host the qualifiers at the Guards Polo Club from November 9 to 16, marking the first time the country has secured the hosting rights in the over 120-year history of polo in Nigeria.

Dikko said the competition aligned with the commission’s commitment to using sports to promote economic development, tourism and international engagement.

He urged stakeholders to view the tournament as a national event rather than the responsibility of the polo association alone, assuring the organisers of the commission’s support within available resources.

“Every sport, whether Olympic or non-Olympic, has something to contribute to the economy. We are working to activate the sports economy in the country, and polo is one of the sports that can help achieve this,” he said.

Earlier, Abubakar said Nigeria’s hosting rights reflected growing international recognition of the country’s progress in polo and the association’s efforts to develop the sport.

The tournament will feature India, Iran, Pakistan and hosts Nigeria, all competing in Zone E of the Federation of International Polo.

According to Abubakar, the four participating ountries have attained the required standard to compete at the 14-goal handicap level within the zone.

“We are ready. The facilities are in place, and some of the key requirements have already been met. The polo fields and horses are ready, accommodation is available, and security arrangements are in place,” Abubakar said. (Daily Trust)