By: Lauretta Fagbohun, Abeokuta.
The Abeokuta Polo Club is set to hold a landmark groundbreaking ceremony for its state-of-the-art facility on Saturday, May 17, 2025. The event will commence at 10:00 a.m. at the club’s proposed site, located just after Kobape Junction along the Abeokuta–Sagamu Interchange Expressway, near Oni-Pepeye village.
President of the Abeokuta Polo Club, Dr. Sheriff Adams Abdulrahman, described the occasion as a pivotal moment for the development of equestrian sports in Ogun State.
“This groundbreaking is more than the launch of a polo facility. it marks the beginning of a vision to establish Abeokuta as a premier destination for polo and equestrian excellence,” Dr. Abdulrahman stated.
He emphasized that the club is not just building a facility, but creating a lasting legacy. “We are laying the foundation for future generations. This project will serve as a catalyst for youth development, sports tourism, and social networking across the state,” he said.
Dr. Abdulrahman also acknowledged the widespread support the project has garnered. “From traditional rulers to political leaders, military veterans to labour unions—we are witnessing a heartening convergence of goodwill that strengthens our resolve,” he noted.
Ahead of the groundbreaking, the event’s planning committee led by its Chairman, Chief Abiodun Lasile, who also serves as the Orunto of Owu Kingdom has embarked on a series of strategic visits to key stakeholders.
These included courtesy calls to the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo; the Office of the Surveyor General; the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly; and the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
During a visit to Rtd. Major Tijan T.G, the retired officer expressed his support, saying, “Polo is rare in the Southwest, but this is a bold and commendable vision I’m proud to support.”
Other notable personalities visited by the committee include Chief Charles Adedotun Sobayo (Asiwaju Bada Egba), Chief Wale Adesina (Saranda), and the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engr. Noimot Oyedele-Salako—all of whom welcomed the project with enthusiasm.
Commenting on the project’s broader impact, Chief Lasile remarked, “This is about more than polo. It’s about pride in Abeokuta, unity in our community, and raising the bar for sports infrastructure in the region.”
He added that the facility is positioned to become one of Nigeria’s finest, with its carefully designed layout and high-calibre planning team.
“This isn’t just a polo club—it’s an investment in our people. It will create jobs, boost local hospitality, and inspire young people to dream big. We’re sowing a seed that will yield immense benefits for Abeokuta and beyond,” Chief Lasile affirmed.