The Port Harcourt Polo Club successfully hosted its annual International Polo Tournament, bringing together polo enthusiasts, players, and spectators from across Nigeria to celebrate the beauty of the sport.
The event, held from January 13th to January 18th, 2025, featured thrilling competitions among top polo teams vying for prestigious trophies such as the O.B Lulu Briggs Cup, T.Y Danjuma Cup, King Alfred Diete Spiff Cup, Governors Cup (Selected), and the President’s Cup, among others.
As the first major tourism event of the year, the tournament has become a tradition that attracts visitors from across the country to Rivers State, fostering unity and showcasing the state’s vibrant culture and hospitality.
The Port Harcourt Polo Club extended special recognition to Alabo Dr. Emi Membere-Otaji, the Managing Director of Elshcon, for his outstanding contributions to the sport of polo and his unwavering support of the annual tournament.
As a major sponsor of the event, Dr. Membere-Otaji played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of this year’s International Polo Tournament, which has become a cornerstone of sports and tourism in Rivers State. In appreciation of his commitment and generosity, he was awarded and honored during the closing ceremony.
The Club President, Prince Henry Agbodjan, commended Dr. Membere-Otaji for his dedication to promoting polo and fostering community spirit. He stated:
“Dr. Emi Membere-Otaji has been a pillar of support for our club and the game of polo. His contributions have not only elevated this tournament but have also inspired a new generation of players and enthusiasts. We are deeply grateful for his vision and partnership.”
Dr. Membere-Otaji expressed his gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting initiatives that unite and uplift the community through sports and culture.
The evenings were filled with lively entertainment, as guests and well-wishers enjoyed music, dancing, fine wine, and opportunities to connect in a relaxed and festive atmosphere.
In addition to the exhilarating polo matches, the event featured a vendor exhibition, where a variety of goods and services were showcased at affordable rates, providing guests with a vibrant shopping experience. From local crafts to unique merchandise, the vendors added a dynamic element to the tournament, enhancing its appeal to a diverse audience.
Fashion enthusiasts were also treated to a stunning fashion show, where designers displayed their creativity and style, making the event a haven for fashionistas. The runway became a highlight of the tournament, celebrating the intersection of sports, culture, and fashion.
In his closing remarks, the President of the Club, Prince Henry Agbodjan, expressed his gratitude to the participants, sponsors, and attendees, stating:
“We united the city of Port Harcourt and beyond in a grand celebration of camaraderie, sportsmanship, and timeless tradition. With extraordinary equestrian displays and unforgettable entertainment, this year’s tournament was truly one for the books. The games may have ended, but the memories of Unity in Motion 2025 will live on.”
The Port Harcourt Polo Club continues to solidify its place as a hub for sports, tourism, and cultural exchange, making each year’s tournament a landmark event in the region.