Nigerian polo enthusiasts and the lovers of the noble game of kings are in for a special treats with a billboard polo events lining up in Plateau state for what promises to be one of the grandest holiday seasons in years. The prestigious festival is being hosted by Governor Barrister Simon Bako Lalongand sponsored by Plateau State Government.

As you are reading this, it is all hooting up in the Tin city with the Jos Winter Polo Tournament already upon us with many teams hitting town for this special end of year polo carnival.

One of such teams that have already become the talk –of-the-town is the defending champions, Jos Malcomines who are eyeing another victory to extend their domination to three straight wins.

Powered by one of  the youngest polo patrons in the country, Murtala Laushe, Jos Malcomines side are branding a winning stretch that puts them head and shoulders above others jostling for the event’s biggest prize, the Governor’s Cup.

Laushe who played vital part in his team’s victory run that started in Jos, runs through Bauchi, Yola and Keffi, is confidence that his squad has what it takes to retain the Governor’s Cup for the third time in a row.

“We are preparing hard for this and when it comes to playing before our teeming supporters, oppositions have very little chance of surviving.” Laushe declared shortly after leading his team to Atiku Abubakar Cup victory at the Keffi Open international polo tournament a fortnight ago.

“Jos Malcomines has a duty to make the government and the proud people of Plateau State happy and we intend to give them a fitting xmas and New Year  present by winning the main prize at stake ,” Laushi who doubles as the Tournament Manager declares.

The weeklong event will see the players and the horses competing for top honours in the four main championship cups. There are also a handful of subsidiary prizes spread on the bouquet for individual awards.

Jos Polo Captain, Yusuf Dauda disclosed that major prizes at stake are the Governor’s Cup which is the biggest reward, NASCO Cup, and President Cup, with enough low goal teams on hand for thrilling contest.

Dauda also confirmed that teams from Abuja, Zaria Maiduguri, Katsina, Kaduna, Bauchi, Sokoto, Kano and Keffi are listed for actions.

Nigerian Polo Federation (NPF) President, Francis Ogboro who confirmed the readiness of the national body to continue its partnership with Jos Polo Club, declared that NPF was committed to the promotion of peace and tourism in Jos.

Ogboro, who described Jos as a special city, said national polo ruling body was delighted to be part of the prestigious annual polo tournament and enjoys the traditional hospitality of Plateau State people, particularly Jos, as the home of peace.

Jos Polo Tournament Chairman Abdul Ganiyu confirmed that all is set for the annual event, assuring polo buffs and polo freaks across the country, of world class and exciting games.

“Everything is looking up to very exciting games this year and we have put everything on the ground to make this edition one of the most memorable in years,” Ganiyu enthused on phone from Jos.

With holiday season by the corner, the chilly Plateau State capital city, renowned as the “Home of Peace & Tourism” is already steaming with visitors and tourists ahead of the Boxing Day opening ceremony of the polo fiesta

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2017 Jos Winter Polo Tournament: Gov Lalong welcomes all to Tin city