The 2025 edition of the Access Bank Polo Tournament, held in Surrey, England, brought together global figures from sports, governance, and royalty, with this year’s focus firmly placed on education development in Northern Nigeria.
Among the prominent attendees were the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, and Thomas Tuchel, head coach of the England national football team and former Chelsea manager. The event, now popularly referred to as the “Khalifa’s Cup,” also hosted high-profile guests including Governors Dikko Radda of Katsina State and Umar Bago of Niger State, alongside business leader Tunde Folawiyo and members of the late Dahiru Manga’s family.
This year’s tournament served a dual purpose not just as a prestigious gathering of elite polo players, but as a fundraising platform to support classroom construction and improve access to education in underserved communities across Northern Nigeria. Organisers say the funds raised will contribute directly to initiatives aimed at reducing the region’s high out-of-school population.
A light-hearted moment from the event captured public attention when Emir Sanusi and Tuchel engaged in a football-themed exchange, joking about Arsenal’s Champions League prospects. Tuchel mentioned the club’s recent signing of his former player, Noni Madueke. “Now that he manages England, he sees all English clubs as his,” Sanusi reportedly quipped via an associate.
Beyond his royal role, Emir Sanusi is widely regarded for his contributions to public discourse, Islamic finance, and education advocacy. His recent academic milestone a PhD from the University of London further underscores his longstanding commitment to education and reform.
The Access Bank Polo Tournament continues to use sport as a catalyst for social change, with this year’s educational focus reinforcing the growing role of philanthropic partnerships in addressing Nigeria’s developmental challenges.
