Sports

Sports Minister Undertakes Inspection Tour of Obafemi Awolowo Stadium

Published

3 years ago

December 18, 2023

In his dedication to advancing grassroots development and fostering sports at the community level, the Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, undertook a detailed inspection tour of the Obafemi Awolowo National Stadium in Ibadan on Monday.

The inspection was undertaken during the Minister’s visit to the Southwest Zonal Office of the Ministry of Sports Development. He emphasized the crucial role that the Ministry’s zonal offices play in his comprehensive agenda for grassroots development.

The Southwest Zonal Office, encompassing Ekiti, Ondo, Ogun, Osun, Oyo, and Lagos states, serves as a strategic hub for implementing policies and initiatives aimed at activating grassroots sports and facilitating holistic development at the regional level.

During the inspection tour of the Obafemi Awolowo National Stadium, led by zonal coordinator, Mr. Okere Emmanuel, Senator Enoh emphasized the importance of creating an enabling environment for athletes, coaches, and sports enthusiasts to thrive, underscoring the pivotal role sports play in unifying communities and fostering a culture of excellence.

Senator Enoh stated, “the zonal offices of the Ministry of Sports Development are vital to our efforts in promoting grassroots sports and development. By focusing on regions, we can tailor our interventions to address specific needs and harness the untapped potential in these communities.”

The Honourable Minister affirmed that the visit was part of a broader strategy to engage directly with local communities, understand their unique challenges, and collaborate with stakeholders to implement targeted solutions. He acknowledged the enthusiasm and passion for sports within the Southwest region and emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to creating opportunities for talent development and sports participation at the grassroots level.

As Senator John Enoh continues to champion grassroots development through strategic initiatives, he reiterated the need to partner individuals and corporate organizations in the development drive towards national interest.

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Sports

29 Days To AACT 2026: IBB Club Renewal Heralds Nigeria’s African Golf Showcase

Published

4 hours ago

October 4, 2026

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

With 29 days to the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT), Nigeria is stepping up preparations to host the continental women’s team golf championship, with the extensive rehabilitation of the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja providing a major boost to the country’s readiness.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja Director of Communication AACT 2026, Kayode Adeniyi said the Club’s Board of Trustees has assured that the facility will be fully prepared to welcome golfers, officials and delegates from across Africa when the championship tees off on November 2.

Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Hon. Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, CFR, gave the assurance after inspecting ongoing rehabilitation works at the Club, expressing satisfaction with the progress recorded so far.

The IBB International Golf and Country Club has undergone extensive rehabilitation following its closure to regular golfing activities for more than a year. The intervention has focused on the golf course, selected holes, the clubhouse and other key facilities required to provide a befitting venue for the continental championship.

Justice Dongban-Mensem expressed confidence that the rehabilitation programme would be completed in time for the AACT, further reassuring stakeholders that the Club would be ready to host Africa’s leading female golfers.

Chairman of the Club’s Interim Management Committee, Peter Deshi, also expressed optimism over the progress of work, with regular golfing activities expected to resume ahead of the championship.

For the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), the readiness of the host venue remains a critical component of the country’s preparations.

President of the Association, Dr. Lami Ahmed, has similarly expressed confidence in Nigeria’s preparations to stage a successful championship.

The 2026 AACT is scheduled to take place from November 2 to 7 at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja.

With the countdown now entering its final month, the rehabilitation of the Club is sending a strong message about Nigeria’s determination to deliver a successful championship and provide a worthy stage for Africa’s finest female golfers.

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