Polo players and enthusiasts will, from Saturday, converge on Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, for the 2026 annual NPA Ibadan International Polo tournament, billed for Ibadan Polo Club, Eleyele, Ibadan.
Speaking with journalists on Friday, Vice-President and Chairman, tournament committee, Chief Olajuwon Subair, said this year’s tournament, which holds between Sunday, May 10 and 17, promises to be much more fun-filled as it coincides with the 120th anniversary celebration of playing Polo in the ancient city of Ibadan.
Subair hinted that traditionally, teams from all the major polo clubs in Port Harcourt, Jos, Kaduna, Katsina, and Abuja are expected to spice up the tournament, as it has been recorded for many decades.
He stated further that lovers of the game who are expected throughout the weeklong event will not be disappointed, as they will be thrilled with an excellent display from polo players, including other side attractions such as music, among others.
President of the club, Bola Adeyemi, in his address, informed that the host club has concluded arrangements to launch a new prize, named the 120th Anniversary Cup, to commemorate the milestone. Other prizes include: the GOC Cup, Professor Jide Owoeye Cup, HST Cup, and Shoreline Cup, alongside a number of selected prizes and special awards.
He noted that guests, players, and polo enthusiasts will additionally be treated to a gala dinner and awards night honouring those who have contributed immensely to the growth of polo in Ibadan.
Polo was first played in Ibadan in 1906 when the Ibadan Polo Club was established under British colonial authority, with matches held on grounds designated for polo, horse racing, and general recreation.
What began as a colonial pastime evolved over generations into a significant cultural and sporting institution for the Nigerian elite. Over its 120-year history, the Ibadan tournament has become a major fixture on the Nigerian polo calendar.
“Ibadan polo tournaments, over the years, have set an unparalleled level of quality as one of the most thrilling polo events in the country, and we are putting together yet another top-notch arrangement which will make the 2026 tournament the most memorable,” Adeyemi said.
