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Governor of Ogun State, Prince 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  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.

The state's Helmsman who was represented by his Deputy  Engr Noimot Salako-Oyedele, 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.

The Gov 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. 

Welcoming the guest at the Ground Breaking to Ogun State, he stressed that as a government, he remains committed to providing the enabling environment for such ventures to flourish, using the opportunity to invite those present to the Gateway Games holding in various centers across the state, promising them an exhilarating time. 

Also speaking the Chairman of the occasion, 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, urging people interested citizens to join the Polo club as welm as support the development drive of the club

In his remarks , Olowu of Owu, HRH Oba Saka Matemilola, commended the initiator of the polo club, saying it  would help to promote sport I  the state as well as  provide job opportunities for youths by the time the facilities would be constructed, pledging the support of the Egba council of Obas towards the success of the project. 

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.