First Lady Decorated Grand Patron of All Africa Challenge Trophy, Nigeria 2026

The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has been decorated as the Grand Patron of the All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT), Nigeria 2026, the premier women’s amateur golf championship on the continent.

The tournament, which Nigeria secured the hosting rights for after a competitive bid in Morocco, is scheduled to hold from November 2 to 7, 2026, at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja.

According to a statement by her media aide, Busola Kukoyi, the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria decorated the First Lady during a visit to seek national support for the championship.

The President of the Association, Dr Lami Onayi Ahmed, requested the First Lady’s endorsement of the tournament and her participation in the opening ceremony and ceremonial tee-off.

Ahmed, alongside the President of the Court of Appeal and Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Justice Monica Mensem, subsequently decorated Senator Tinubu as Grand Patron.

Responding, the First Lady commended the association for securing the hosting rights and expressed particular support for its proposed Girls in Golf Legacy Project.

The project is aimed at mentoring and nurturing 300 girls in golf, with Senator Tinubu saying some of the beneficiaries could eventually become world champions.

She said becoming a renowned golfer requires discipline, commitment and dedication, describing the qualities as important in building a formidable future for the girls.

Senator Tinubu also highlighted the potential tourism and economic benefits of hosting the continental championship in Nigeria.

As part of her new role, the First Lady performed a symbolic tee-off with a golf practice kit in her office.

Earlier, Justice Mensem commended the First Lady for her efforts towards supporting girls and women in the country.

About 30 countries are expected to participate in the championship, which will be hosted at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja.

The 2026 edition will be the third time Nigeria is hosting the All Africa Challenge Trophy.