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Access Bank UK Ltd's 2025 Polo Day: A Vision for Education

On July 12, 2025, Access Bank UK Ltd hosted its annual Polo Day event at Guards Polo Club in Windsor, marking a decade since its initial collaboration with Fifth Chukker and UNICEF. This exquisite blend of sport and philanthropy is more than just a competition; it’s a mission to transform the educational landscape for thousands of children in Nigeria. The event showcased a gathering of inspiring leaders, athletes, and advocates, all united by a single cause: enhancing education for the future generation.

The ACCESS Bank Cup has become synonymous with raising critical funds for education in Nigeria. Since its inception, the event has directly impacted the lives of 14,000 children by funding the construction and equipping of 60 school room blocks. This year, the funds raised will contribute to the construction of an additional 60 classrooms in Kaduna, thus continuing the momentum of change and opportunity for the youth.

Jamie Simmonds, CEO of The Access Bank UK Ltd, highlighted the significance of this initiative in his opening remarks, stating, "This event reflects the essence of our vision: to bridge continents and connect purpose with prosperity. By championing education, we reaffirm our commitment to building a more inclusive and sustainable future to empower young minds across Africa."

The polo matches are not merely a sport; they serve as a global platform where players from Africa have the opportunity to compete with some of the world's elite polo professionals. The 2025 event was graced by international polo superstar Adolfo Cambiaso, who, alongside his daughter Mia, participated under the Fifth Chukker team banner. The presence of such renowned figures adds to the event's prestige and reinforces the message of global solidarity for a vital cause.

Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Chairman of Access Holdings, stated that utilizing the allure of polo has successfully united global changemakers around the common goal of investing in Africa's future through education. His remarks emphasized the transformative power of the partnership with Fifth Chukker and UNICEF: "Investing in education is the most potent catalyst for development."

The partnership with UNICEF is not only philanthropic but strategically aims at addressing long-term educational needs throughout rural Nigeria. Roosevelt Ogbonna, Group Managing Director/ CEO of Access Bank Plc, echoed this sentiment, proclaiming education as a fundamental right and a pivotal part of the bank's mission: "At Access Bank, we believe that education should be accessible to all. Our brand's alignment with this purpose showcases that financial growth and social impact can coexist harmoniously."

The integration of corporate responsibility, global collaboration, and empathy is a hallmark of the Access Bank UK Charity Polo Day. This event stands as a proud testament to how corporate leadership can facilitate meaningful change not only from Kaduna to the UK but beyond. The ongoing success of this event is indicative of Access Bank’s commitment to sustainable community development and inclusive education.

As Africa’s International Gateway, Access Bank UK continues to forge paths for increased global engagement and development. Having earned accolades such as the International Finance Award for Best African Trade Bank in 2024, the organization remains steadfast in developing a sustainable business model, guided by the ethos of its parent company.

The 2025 Polo Day will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy that shapes the educational landscape for generations to come. The collaboration of Access Bank UK, Fifth Chukker, and UNICEF reflects a unified vision committed to improving the quality of life and future for children in Nigeria. It is precisely through events like this that we can hope for a future where every child receives not just an education, but the promise of a brighter tomorrow.