NGF Unveils Fresh Development Strategy
The Nigeria Golf Federation, NGF, has unveiled a new roadmap aimed at repositioning the sport through grassroots development, youth empowerment, improved administration and stronger strategic partnerships.
The new direction was announced by the President of the Nigeria Golf Federation, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, at the second edition of the NGF Stakeholders’ Summit in Abuja.
The summit brought together representatives of more than 46 golf clubs and other stakeholders from across the country.
The event was themed, “Finding the Fairway: Sustainable Growth and Youth Development.”
Runsewe described the gathering as an important moment for the future of Nigerian golf.
According to him, the federation is seeking to open new opportunities for the sustainable growth of the sport.
Grassroots Development Takes Centre Stage
A major part of the new roadmap is the development of golf at the grassroots level.
The NGF believes that Nigeria’s long-term success in the sport will depend on discovering and developing young talents.
Runsewe said youth development would remain at the centre of the federation’s strategy.
The plan is expected to encourage greater participation among young Nigerians while creating a clearer pathway from amateur golf to higher levels of competition.
The federation is also looking at ways to improve coaching and player development.
A stronger grassroots structure could help Nigeria produce more competitive players for continental and international competitions.
Federation Reviews Key Areas of Golf Development
The NGF President said the federation is undertaking a broad review of important areas affecting the development of the sport.
These include administration, competitions, coaching and player development.
The review will also cover handicap systems, infrastructure and safety.
Runsewe said the objective is to build a stronger and better organised golf community.
The federation also wants Nigerian golf to operate according to international standards.
This could help create more opportunities for players and officials while improving Nigeria’s position within the global golf community.
Sports Tourism and Partnerships on the Agenda
The new roadmap also places significant attention on partnerships.
Runsewe said the federation intends to work more closely with airlines, hotels and other sectors.
The partnerships are expected to improve tournament logistics and support the growth of sports tourism.
Golf tournaments can attract players, officials, sponsors and visitors from different locations.
A stronger connection between golf and the tourism industry could therefore create additional economic opportunities.
The strategy could also help Nigeria host more major international golf events.
Nigeria Prepares for All Africa Challenge Trophy
The NGF President also reaffirmed the federation’s support for the forthcoming All Africa Challenge Trophy, AACT.
The competition is scheduled to hold from November 1 to November 7 at the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja.
Nigeria is expected to host participating countries during the tournament.
Runsewe expressed confidence in the country’s preparations for the event.
He also commended the President of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria, Dr Lami Onayi Ahmed, for her efforts towards ensuring a successful competition.
The AACT is expected to provide Nigeria with another opportunity to demonstrate its ability to host major sporting events.
Stakeholders Back New Direction
The summit attracted several prominent personalities and stakeholders.
His Royal Highness, Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi, attended as the Royal Father of the event.
The Chairman of Trobel Nigeria Limited, Mr Lawal Garba, served as Chairman of the summit.
Former Plateau State Governor, Senator Simon Bako Lalong, was also present as Special Guest of Honour.
The participation of stakeholders reflects growing interest in the development of golf in Nigeria.
For the federation, however, the major task will be turning the new roadmap into practical results.
The success of the strategy will depend on sustained investment, stronger grassroots programmes and effective partnerships.
With youth development now at the centre of its plans, the Nigeria Golf Federation is positioning the sport for a new phase of growth.
The coming years will determine how successfully the federation can convert its new roadmap into stronger participation, improved infrastructure and greater international recognition for Nigerian golf.
