How Danbata’s Kano Golden Alchemy seized the spotlight at 2026 NPA Lagos Polo

The 2026 NPA Lagos International Polo Tournament once again transformed the historic Lagos Polo Club in Ikoyi into a theatre of elite sport, tradition and high society, with Abba Dantata at the centre of this year’s spectacle.

The captain of Kano Golden Alchemy delivered a commanding performance to guide his team to victory in the prestigious Sani Dangote Memorial Cup, defeating Ibadan Imperial Risevest 10–3 in a fiercely contested final that highlighted the competitive depth of this year’s tournament.

The NPA Lagos International Polo Tournament, widely regarded as Africa’s most prestigious and enduring polo event, attracted top players from across Nigeria and abroad, reinforcing Lagos’ status as a continental hub for the sport.

Among a flurry of high-profile fixtures, the emotional weight of the Sani Dangote Memorial Cup stood out. Dantata led from the front as Kano Golden Alchemy emphatically retained the trophy.

Winning for “Sani”

For Dantata, a prominent figure in Nigerian polo and Vice-Chairman of the Nigerian Polo Association (NPA), the victory carried deep personal significance. The cup honours the late Lagos Polo Club President, Sani Dangote, a figure Dantata described as “always in our hearts.”

“There is never an easy game,” Dantata said after the match, dismissing suggestions that the scoreline reflected a straightforward outing. “It was competitive all through to the end. We kept our cool, enjoyed the game and had the support of family all around. The Sani Dangote Memorial Cup is very dear to our hearts.”

The triumph marked his second consecutive win in the memorial event.

“We played as a family. I’m happy we did it in front of family and friends,” he added.

A Multigenerational Polo Dynasty

The victory also underscored the enduring legacy of the Dantata-Dangote polo dynasty. Competing alongside his brother, Dantata reflected on the family’s deep roots in the “Game of Kings.”

“The Dantata-Dangote family has been a polo family for generations,” he noted. “I can’t even say when I started playing. I was born into it. I grew up playing, and we hope it continues for many more generations.”

Institutional Progress at Ikoyi

Beyond the field of play, Dantata praised the organisational strides made by the Lagos Polo Club under President Adeyemo Alakija and Tournament Manager Usman Dantata Jnr.

“Lagos Polo Club has done an incredible job. We can see the advancement and growing international recognition. Kudos to the club and the 2026 NPA Lagos International Polo Tournament for promoting polo in Nigeria,” he said.

This year’s edition features a rich lineup of competitions, including the Heritage Cup, Oba of Lagos Cup, Cancer Awareness Bowl, Governors Cup and the Sani Dangote Memorial Cup, reinforcing the tournament’s blend of sporting excellence and institutional legacy.

Alakija described the 2026 edition, his first as club president, as a landmark moment.

“We are expecting top-class polo action, camaraderie and a full calendar of social events throughout the tournament,” he said.

Tournament manager Usman Dantata revealed that nearly 30 teams, comprising about 120 players and over 480 horses, are competing across the three-week event, underscoring its scale and logistical sophistication.

Founded in 1904, the Lagos Polo Club remains one of Africa’s oldest polo institutions and a symbol of Nigeria’s sporting heritage. Over time, the Lagos International Polo Tournament has evolved into more than a sporting contest, becoming a convergence point for business leaders, diplomats and cultural influencers.

For Abba Dantata and Kano Golden Alchemy, however, the 2026 edition will be remembered foremost for family pride, competitive composure and the successful defence of a trophy that remains deeply personal.