Kano gears up for 2025 int’l polo tournament

From the ancient Fombina Kingdom in Adamawa, Nigeria’s polo cavalry will make a short trip to the historic city of Kano for the prestigious 2025 Kano International Polo Tournament.

The two-week festival, billed for the Usman Dantata Polo Ground from the third week of September, promises top-flight action featuring Nigeria’s best teams alongside foreign counterparts in what has become a must-attend event.

Kano Polo Chairman, Tajudeen Dantata, confirmed that preparations are well advanced. “All the committee are on ground and working to deliver all the required values to our esteemed traditional sponsors, partners, patrons, participating teams and thousands of enthusiasts who have over the decades made the Ibadan tournament a festival of choice,” he said.

Regarded as one of Nigeria’s most prestigious polo tournaments alongside Lagos, Kaduna, and Katsina, the event is famed for its glittering prizes. The highly coveted Emir of Kano Cup leads the list, alongside the Dantata Cup, Dangote Cup, MRS Cup, Usman Dantata Cup, Muhammadu Sanusi Cup, and others.

“Our love and passion for the oldest team sport in the world is second to none and in all my involvements so far, we’ve demonstrated this tenacity, zeal and commitment to the promotion of the game not only in the state, but across the country generally,” Dantata added.

The tournament, which began in the 1930s, annually attracts royalties, diplomats, business leaders, and polo enthusiasts from around the world. Top players from Europe, Argentina, and South Africa are expected this year, while home-based players will also feature prominently.

“We are pushing to increase spectator turnout this year, while creating more opportunities for home-based players. The level of team interest is inspiring and we look forward to watching the competition unfold in what promises to be the most exciting high-goal season ever,” Dantata assured.