Governor of Ogun state, Dapo Abiodun, has performed the monumental Ground Breaking Ceremony of the Abeokuta Polo Club.
Speaking at the event which was held at the Abeokuta Polo Estate, along the Abeokuta-Sagamu Expressway, Kobape, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Gov Abiodun noted that it may have taken a while, but its arrival is timely and deeply welcome, stressing that it couldn’t have come at a better time than when the State is set to host the 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged Ogun Gateway Games 2024.
Represented by his Deputy, Engr Noimot Salako-Oyedele, the governor commended the visioner and president of Abeokuta Polo Club, Dr. Sheriff Abdulrahman Adams, calling it a bold and commendable initiative, one which he said positions Abeokuta alongside Lagos and Ibadan as a key hub for the sport of kings.
Abiodun opined that Abeokuta Polo club was more than a sporting venue, saying It is a project with significant socio economic potential, capable of attracting polo enthusiasts alongside players from around the world, boosting tourism, hospitality and investment in Ogun state.
He informed that the initiative aligns with his Administration’s agenda to make Ogun state a preferred destination to live, work and play, calling on other investors to key into the vision of the Visioner both in supporting the successful delivery of the club and also to explore any complementary opportunities in hospitality, infrastructure and leisure that will further elevate sporting experience in the state.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the occasion, the Alake and paramount ruler of Egbaland, HRM, Oba Dr. Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, appreciated God for making such development to happen in his reign, describing the game as interesting and classic, while urging interested citizens to join the Polo club as well as support the development drive of the club
Earlier in his welcome remarks the President Abeokuta Polo Club, Dr. Sherif Adams Abdulrahman, said the occasion signifies 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 also to contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of Abeokuta and Ogun State at large.
He added that their aim was also to attract tourists and visitors to Abeokuta, thereby increasing revenue for local businesses and stimulating economic growth, Create job employment opportunities for locals, both directly and indirectly, with a view to promoting Abeokuta’s culture and heritage, as well as showcasing the city’s rich history and natural beauty.