Nigeria hosts maiden African Chovken Championship in Abuja

  All is now set for the first ever African International Chovken Championship to be held in Nigeria from November 5 to 8, 2025 at the serene Guards Polo Club in Asokoro, Abuja. Chairman of the African Region of the (ICF), Nura Sani Kangiwa who confirmed this, stated that Nigeria is set to host the […]

 

All is now set for the first ever African International Chovken Championship to be held in Nigeria from November 5 to 8, 2025 at the serene Guards Polo Club in Asokoro, Abuja.
Chairman of the African Region of the (ICF), Nura Sani Kangiwa who confirmed this, stated that Nigeria is set to host the maiden African regional championship, a milestone event expected to attract teams from across the continent and spotlight the country’s equestrian sports capabilities.
Kangiwa who is the Chairman of the African Region of the International Chovken Federation (ICF) disclosed that African countries like Egypt, Morocco, South Africa and Ghana would be leading countries expected to vie for honours during the four days African festival in Nigeria.
He also stated that the choice of Nigeria as first ever African host of the glamorous event, follows on the country’s sterling performance at the maiden International Chovken Championship held in Baku, Azerbaijan last year, where Nigeria finished ahead of other countries across the world.
“Hosting this championship will not only boost Nigeria’s image internationally but also stimulate interest and investment in equestrian sports across the country.
“Countries like Kenya, and several others have already expressed readiness to participate.”
“We are working with private and public stakeholders to ensure a seamless hosting experience.”
“This is a legacy project that could redefine equestrian sports in Nigeria and indeed Africa,” said Kangiwa.
The proprietor of NSK Polo Ranch also pointed out that the championship will bring together the finest riders and teams from across the continent and beyond, showcasing the pinnacle of equestrian excellence.

NSC Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Dikko pledged the commission’s support, noting that hosting such an event aligns with the federal government’s goal of expanding the country’s sporting portfolio beyond mainstream athletics.

Chovken is an equestrian team sport with historical roots and striking resemblance to the popular Polo sport. The game is played by two teams of four horse riders who drive a small leather ball into an opponent’s goal using curved wooden mallets.

It is a fast-paced, strategic equestrian team sport with ancient roots —and a legacy that predates and inspired modern Polo.