The Nigeria Polo Association (NPA) is intensifying preparations to host the Federation of International Polo (FIP) Zone E World Cup Play-off tournament in Abuja.
For the first time in its history, the FIP has chosen Nigeria to host the forthcoming Zone E qualifiers, scheduled to take place in Abuja from November 9 to 16, 2026.
Winners from the play-offs will secure a ticket to join other global qualifiers at the FIP World Cup finals, billed for Uruguay, South America, in 2027.
NPA Chairman, Suleiman Abubakar, confirmed that the national body is working tirelessly to successfully host the prestigious event for the first time on the continent. According to him, the tournament covers the newly created FIP Zone E and will feature top-tier polo-playing nations across Africa and Asia.
He disclosed that countries such as South Africa, Egypt, Iran, Pakistan, India, and host nation Nigeria have indicated their interest in competing for the coveted qualification slot.
Expressing strong optimism about Nigeria’s chances of securing a World Cup berth, Abubakar noted that the hosting right has received the official backing of the National Sports Commission (NSC).
“We are pleased to be hosting this world-class event in Abuja, where we have identified a facility that meets the required international standards to successfully execute a global tournament,” Abubakar said.
The last time Nigeria participated in the Polo World Cup play-offs was in 2011. On that occasion, the Life Chairman of the NPA and Emir of Katsina, HRH Dr. Abdulmumini Kabir Usman, led the Nigerian delegation, with the national team captained by Mohammad Babangida at the FIP Zone D play-off in Malaysia.
Credit to our Media Partner DailyTrust .
