NGF Unveils Roadmap To Revitalise Nigerian Golf Through Grassroots Development

The Nigeria Golf Federation (NGF) has unveiled a new roadmap aimed at repositioning golf in the country through grassroots development, youth empowerment, improved standards and strategic partnerships.

NGF President, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, OON, disclosed this at the second NGF Stakeholders’ Summit in Abuja, where representatives of more than 46 golf clubs and other stakeholders gathered to discuss the future of the sport.

The summit, themed “Finding the Fairway: Sustainable Growth and Youth Development,” focused on measures to strengthen the administration and long-term development of golf in Nigeria.

Runsewe described the gathering as an important step towards building a more sustainable structure for the sport, saying the federation had commenced a comprehensive review of key areas of golf administration.

He said the review would cover grassroots development, competitions, coaching, handicap systems, infrastructure, safety and opportunities for Nigerian golfers to compete internationally.

“We want to build a stronger, safer, better organised and internationally respected golf community in Nigeria,” Runsewe said.

He identified grassroots and youth development as key priorities of the federation’s strategy, stressing the need for deliberate investment in young players to secure the future of the sport.

Runsewe also disclosed plans to strengthen partnerships with airlines, hotels and other sectors to improve tournament logistics and support the growth of sports tourism.

The NGF president further reaffirmed the federation’s support for the forthcoming All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT), scheduled to take place from 1 to 7 November at the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja.

He said Nigeria was preparing to host participating countries for the continental tournament and commended the President of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), Dr Lami Onayi Ahmed, for her efforts towards ensuring a successful event.

The summit was attended by several prominent personalities, including the Royal Father of the occasion, His Royal Highness Oba Sahees Ademola Elegushi, Chairman of Trobel Nigeria Limited, Mr Lawal Garba, and Senator Simon Bako Lalong.

The NGF said the recommendations and outcomes of the summit would form part of its broader efforts to establish a more structured and sustainable pathway for golf development in Nigeria.