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By Salisu Sani-Idris

The Keffi International Polo Tournament organised by a former two-term member of the House of Representatives, Hon Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, ended on Sunday with the display of superlative skills by the players, who entertained the teeming polo lovers that came to watch the game from all over the country and beyond.

Some of the dignitaries that witnessed the final tournament were the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, Emir of
Keffi, Dr Shehu Chindo Yamusa III, Emir of Awe, Alhaji Isa Abubakar, Emir of Nasarawa, Alhaji Usman Jibrin, former Governor of Adamawa state, Bindau Jibrila, among others.

The Keffi Ponys drew 4-4 with the Jos Malcom mines in the finals of the international tournament.

Founder of the Ranch, Wadada revealed that proceeds from the tournament would be used to support the educational needs of the most vulnerable and indigent pupils and students in Nasarawa State.

The promoter of the Keffi Polo Ranch disclosed that this year’s Ranch annual Polo tournament was organised to honour late business mogul and philanthropist, Captain Hosa Okunbo.

Wadada who is the Sarkin Yakin of Keffi, explained thatthe honour was in recognition of Okunbo whose philanthropic gesture was exemplary.

He disclosed that Okunbo who died in London on August 8th, 2021, contributed immensely to the activities of the Ranch while alive.

” Ranch holds two tournaments a year in support of Education and Orphans. This year’s tournament is going to be an exceptional one in support of education and the late Captain Hosa Okunbo, Wadada said.

Earlier, the Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Awwal Gambo, congratulated the promoter and members of the organising committee for their commitment to the landmark event.

He said that the Navy was committed to the educational development of the children/wards of its personnel, including children and youths of their host communities, through the establishment of welfare schools across the country.

Gambo added that the Navy was also actively involved in the ongoing Safe School Initiative, with a view to creating a safe and secured learning environment for children and youths, as well as investing in the future of the youth.

The CNS said participating in the initiative was the Navy’s modest contribution to the Federal Government’s efforts at providing quality education for the people.

Some international polo players participated in the tournament which featured different polo clubs from around the country, including Keffi ponys, malcom mines, profile, standard, Awanke farms polo club.

Awards and trophies were presented to the best performing teams and players.