Polo Day 2025: Empowering 14,000 Children Through Education Initiatives

Access Bank UK's Polo Day 2025: A Decade of Commitment to Education



The ACCESS Bank Cup has emerged as a significant event over the last ten years, evolving from a simple polo match to a vital philanthropic effort aimed at empowering children through education in Nigeria. Held annually at the prestigious Guards Polo Club in Windsor, this year’s event took place on July 12, 2025, and continued the tradition of blending sport with charity.

The recent Polo Day witnessed the participation of notable personalities, including Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman of Access Holdings, and the current CEO of Access Bank Plc Nigeria, Mr. Roosevelt Ogbonna. Both leaders underscored the importance of this initiative, which has directly contributed to the construction of 60 fully equipped school blocks, benefiting approximately 14,000 children who are now able to access quality education. These numbers are a testament to the positive impact the Polo Cup has had over the years, originating from a modest school of just 400 pupils.

Jamie Simmonds, Managing Director of The Access Bank UK Ltd, highlighted the strategic significance of the Polo Day, stating, "This event encapsulates our vision of bridging continents and connecting purpose with prosperity. By championing education through this platform, we assert our belief that nurturing young minds across Africa lays the groundwork for a more inclusive and sustainable future globally."

This philanthropic event not only serves educational purposes but also is an extraordinary opportunity for polo players, particularly from Nigeria and other African regions, to showcase their skills alongside some of the sport’s elite. In a remarkable display of family legacy, Adolfo Cambiaso, a renowned figure in the polo community, participated with his daughter Mia competing in the Fifth Chukker team, further emphasizing the event's approachability and inclusivity.

The partnership with UNICEF plays a pivotal role in ensuring that funds raised are directed towards the long-term educational requirements of children in rural Nigeria, reflecting Access Bank's commitment to sustainable community development. Aig-Imoukhuede remarked, "We have leveraged polo at Guards as a platform to unite global changemakers dedicated to investing in Africa’s future through education. Our collaboration with both Fifth Chukker and UNICEF is not just symbolic but transformative for many communities."

Furthermore, Roosevelt Ogbonna reiterated Access Bank's stance on education, asserting that it is a fundamental right. He expressed pride in aligning the bank’s brand with this purpose, reinforcing that achieving financial success and driving social impact should go hand in hand. "The Access Bank UK Charity Polo Day stands as an exemplary model of how corporate leadership and global alliances can create meaningful, lasting change from Kaduna to the UK and beyond," he added.

The Access Bank UK Ltd, a pivotal part of Access Bank plc, leads the group’s international development efforts while being recognised for its excellence in African trade banking – winning awards in 2024 for this distinction. With commitments regulated by the UK's Prudential Regulation Authority and the Financial Conduct Authority, the bank remains dedicated to achieving sustainable development goals in the regions it serves.

In conclusion, Polo Day 2025 stands as more than just a sporting event. It reflects a concerted effort to address educational needs, foster community development, and inspire the next generation of leaders in Africa. By championing activities like these, The Access Bank UK is setting a global precedent for corporate responsibility and social impact in the philanthropic landscape.

Topics Policy & Public Interest)

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