IBADAN POLO CLUB CELEBRATES 120 YEARS WITH GRAND 2026 NATIONAL TOURNAMENT
By Oluseyi Adedire
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The city of Ibadan is preparing for another remarkable moment in its sporting history as the prestigious National Polo Association Ibadan Tournament returns for its 2026 edition from May 10 to May 17 at the renowned Ibadan Polo Club grounds.
This year’s competition carries historic importance as polo clocks an impressive 120 years in Ibadan, further cementing the ancient city’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s foremost homes of the noble sport. Over the decades, polo in Ibadan has transformed from a colonial-era recreational activity into a thriving sporting culture admired for its elegance, discipline, teamwork, and competitive spirit.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, President of the Ibadan Polo Club, Mr. Abimbola Adeyemi described the anniversary as a major milestone not only for the club but for the growth of polo across the country.
He noted that the game has continued to evolve, attracting a wider audience of players, corporate supporters, and passionate fans while preserving the traditions and values that make polo unique.
The Club Vice President and Chairman of the Tournament Committee, Mogaji Olajuwon Subair, disclosed that this year’s edition will deliver an exciting blend of competitive polo, entertainment and social activities for guests throughout the week-long fiesta. According to him, teams will compete for distinguished honours including the Ade Alakija Memorial Cup, Brigadier General Rotimi Cup, Ibadan Cup, and the highly coveted Governor’s Cup, which will headline the closing ceremony on Sunday, May 17.
One of the major highlights of the tournament will be the specially arranged “Women in Polo” Exhibition Match scheduled for Wednesday, May 14. The initiative is aimed at encouraging female participation and showcasing the growing influence of women within the sport.
A total of 23 teams are expected to participate in the tournament, including 11 Ibadan-based teams, a development widely seen as evidence of the increasing popularity and steady development of polo in the region. Beyond the thrilling action on horseback, spectators will also enjoy a vibrant atmosphere filled with hospitality, networking opportunities, and entertaining side attractions designed to create a memorable experience for families, corporate guests, and polo enthusiasts.
Organisers have assured attendees of adequate security, quality medical support, and top-class welfare arrangements throughout the tournament to ensure comfort and safety at the polo grounds.
As Ibadan celebrates 120 years of polo heritage, the 2026 tournament is expected to not only honour the city’s rich sporting legacy but also inspire a new generation of players and lovers of the game.
Tickets for the tournament have been fixed at ₦5,000 for Regular Access and ₦10,000 for the VIP Experience.
Residents, tourists and polo lovers across Nigeria are encouraged to attend the historic championship and witness a spectacular week of elite polo competition and premium entertainment in the heart of Ibadan.



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