As preparations for the Abeokuta Polo Club’s official launch intensify, the Club’s Grand-Breaking Committee embarked on a series of strategic courtesy visits to key institutions across Ogun State on Monday. The visits underscore the Club’s commitment to fostering strong partnerships and securing broad-based support for its initiatives.
At the 35 Artillery Brigade, Alamala Barracks, the Committee was warmly received by the Chief of Staff. On behalf of the Brigade Commander, the Chief of Staff assured the delegation of the Nigerian Army’s readiness to provide necessary military support for the Club’s activities. He also pledged to escalate the discussions with his superior officers upon their return from an official assignment.
The Committee also visited the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), where it explored opportunities for collaboration in veterinary and animal health services, recognizing the crucial role of veterinary expertise in maintaining the welfare of polo horses and ensuring the Club’s operational standards.
In a similar engagement, the Committee met with the Ogun State Commissioner of Police. The Police Commissioner, accompanied by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Criminal Investigation Department, and ACP Legal, expressed keen interest in the Abeokuta Polo Club project. He assured the team of his personal support and that of the command, affirming his willingness to attend and support upcoming events.
In an earlier engagement, the Committee also paid a courtesy visit to the General Manager of the Ogun State Signage and Advertising Agency (OGSAA), Mr. Fola Onifade. Mr. Onifade warmly welcomed the initiative, expressing enthusiasm about the birth of the Abeokuta Polo Club. He pledged the agency’s support in promoting the Club and enhancing its visibility before and after the groundbreaking ceremony.
President of the Abeokuta Polo Club, Dr. Sheriff Adams Abdulrahman, expressed sincere appreciation to Mr. Onifade for his encouraging words and pledged support.
“We are truly grateful for the General Manager’s readiness to partner with us on public visibility. This is crucial to engaging the public and strengthening awareness about the significance of this project,” he stated.
Dr. Abdulrahman further commended the broader efforts of the Grand-Breaking Committee, noting that these proactive engagements were instrumental in laying a solid foundation for the Club’s success.
“The support from the military, academia, law enforcement, and state institutions reflects growing confidence in the Abeokuta Polo Club’s vision. These partnerships are critical to
positioning Abeokuta as a future hub for polo, tourism, and economic development in the Southwest,” he added.
The visits come on the heels of recent endorsements from the Ogun State Government and traditional leaders, including the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, CFR, and His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Adedapo Adewale Tejuoso, CON, Karunwi III, Osile of Oke Ona Egba, signaling growing momentum for the project.
With these new alliances, the Abeokuta Polo Club is poised to make a significant impact on the sporting, tourism, and economic landscape of Ogun State.
