By Joy Akinsanya

Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, on Saturday inaugurated the Abeokuta Polo Club and polo.

Abiodun, while speaking at the Polo Estate in Kobape, Abeokuta, said that the introduction of polo game was timely and welcomed.

He said that polo couldn’t have come at a better time than when the state was set to host the 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged “Gateway Games”.

Abiodun, who was represented by his Deputy Noimot Salako-Oyedele, commended the president of the club, Dr Sheriff Abdulrahman Adams, for the bold initiative.

He added that polo would position Abeokuta alongside Lagos and Ibadan as a key hub for the sport of kings.

Abiodun said that the Polo Club was more than a sporting venue, saying it is a project with significant socio-economic potential, capable of attracting polo enthusiasts.

He said it would attract players from around the world, which would boost tourism, hospitality and investment in Ogun.

The governor said that the initiative aligns with his administration’s agenda to make Ogun a preferred destination to live, work and play.

He called on other investors to key into the vision of president of the club, both in supporting the successful delivery of the club.

Abiodun urged investors to explore any complementary opportunities in hospitality, infrastructure and leisure that will further elevate sporting experience in the state.

He said that as a government, he remains committed to providing the enabling environment for such ventures to flourish.

He invited those present to the Gateway Games holding in various centres  across the state, promising them an exhilarating time.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the occasion, Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, described the game as interesting and classic.

He urged interested citizens to join the Polo Club as well as support the development drive of the club.

In his remarks, the Olowu of Owu, Oba Saka Matemilola, commended the initiator of the club, saying it would help in promoting sports in the state as well as provide job opportunities for the youths.

He pledged the support of the Egba Council of Obas towards the success of the project.

Earlier, Abdulrahman said the occasion signified the beginning of an exciting journey to create a world-class polo club that will not only elevate the sport in Ogun and Abeokuta in particular, but the country as a whole.

He said that the creation of the club would also contribute meaningfully to the socio- economic development of Abeokuta and Ogun at large.

The president said that it is aimed at attracting tourists and visitors to Abeokuta, thereby increasing revenue for local businesses and stimulating economic growth.

He said it would also create employment opportunities for locals, both directly and indirectly, with a view to promoting Abeokuta’s culture and heritage. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Joseph Edeh