The sport of polo has been hailed as an unparalleled blend of fun, camaraderie, and exclusivity, offering a unique experience unlike any other. Brigadier General Alwali Kazeer (Rtd.), Vice President of the Kaduna Polo Club, emphasized this while speaking to sportswriters during the 2024 Jos International Polo Tournament at the Polo Field in Jos, Plateau State.
“Polo is a sport like no other,” Brig. Gen. Kazeer remarked. “The sense of camaraderie and friendship it fosters is unmatched. It is an exclusive organization that opens doors worldwide. Walk into any Polo club, and as a player, you are warmly welcomed—you instantly feel at home.”
Having played polo actively for 33 years, Brig. Gen. Kazeer described it as a lifelong passion. “Polo is exceptional because it engages players deeply. It’s not a sport you retire from unless there’s a compelling reason. It becomes a part of you—something ingrained in your daily life. From riding and caring for horses, some imported from Argentina, to trading them, it’s a lifestyle.”
Reflecting on the sport’s evolution, he noted significant growth over the last decade. “While polo has traditionally been passed down through generations—from grandparents to parents to children—we now see players with no family ties to the sport joining because they’re drawn to its passion and the relationships it builds. This has broadened the game’s reach and community, allowing polo to thrive and expand.”
For Brig. Gen. Kazeer, polo has been more than just a sport—it’s been a pillar of support throughout his life. Serving in the military for 35 years, he found solace and belonging in the polo community. “Knowing I had a community beyond the military made my transition into retirement seamless. While others might struggle to acclimatize, I already had a family waiting for me—a community that made it easy to continue my life post-service.”
Polo, he explained, goes beyond sport, extending into social and community endeavors. “Through polo, we’ve organized events like orphanage outreach programs, provided support to underprivileged communities, and undertaken other social responsibilities. It’s a sport that enriches every aspect of life, including spiritual engagement and personal growth.”
Addressing the perception of polo as an expensive sport, Brig. Gen. Kazeer highlighted that participation often depends on priorities. “While some players are wealthy, others prioritize polo as their passion and allocate resources to it. The community also supports talented players who lack financial means, providing them with horses, equipment, and encouragement. This inclusivity makes polo accessible to many.”
He also expressed optimism about the growing involvement of women in polo. “In the 1980s and 1990s, Jos had notable female players like Tina Walter, Hadiza, and Ella. Although logistical issues prevented an all-female team from participating in this year’s tournament, efforts are underway to encourage more women to join. Kaduna already boasts an exclusive female team, which is a step in the right direction.”
Brig. Gen. Alwali Kazeer’s reflections encapsulate polo as more than just a sport—it’s a lifelong passion, a global community, and a force for good, fostering friendships, inclusivity, and social impact.