By Peace Udugba
Access Bank UK has said the 2026 edition of its annual Polo Day will focus on mobilising global support and resources to expand access to education for vulnerable children across Nigeria and other underserved communities.
The event, scheduled for July 4, 2026, in Windsor, is expected to attract business leaders, philanthropists, members of the royal family and high-net-worth individuals from around the world to raise funds and strengthen partnerships aimed at improving educational opportunities for disadvantaged children.
According to the bank, the annual Polo Day has evolved beyond a prestigious social gathering into a platform that channels influence into meaningful social impact by funding classrooms, supporting learning programmes and helping children remain in school.
Access Bank UK said that through its collaboration with UNICEF and other local partners, proceeds from previous editions have supported education initiatives addressing critical challenges such as inadequate learning facilities, shortage of educational materials and limited access to quality schooling.
The bank noted that the interventions have enabled thousands of children to continue their education despite economic and social challenges.
It added that the 2026 edition aims to expand the reach of the initiative by raising additional resources to improve the scale and quality of educational interventions.
“This initiative is built on the belief that every child deserves access to education, irrespective of their background or circumstances,” the bank said.
The event will also feature His Royal Highness, Alhaji Abdulmumini Kabir Usman, who will serve as the Special Guest of Honour and present the Emir’s Cup, highlighting Nigeria’s rich polo heritage and commitment to community development.
Access Bank UK said the Emir’s participation reflects the event’s broader objective of connecting leadership, tradition and philanthropy to drive sustainable social impact.
Speaking ahead of the event, the Managing Director of Access Bank UK, Jamie Simmonds, said the Polo Day provides an opportunity to leverage the bank’s platform to create lasting opportunities for children.
“This event is about using our platform to create access where it is most needed. By bringing together the right partners and supporters, we are able to deliver outcomes that can make a real difference in the lives of many children,” Simmonds said.
According to the bank, the annual event has become a consistent vehicle for mobilising support for education and demonstrates how corporate initiatives can contribute meaningfully to addressing societal challenges.
It expressed optimism that this year’s edition would translate into greater educational opportunities, enabling more vulnerable children to remain in school and build brighter futures.
