The IBB International Golf and Country Club (IBBIGCC), Abuja, will host the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT), despite the prolonged closure of the golf facility, the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN) has assured.
The assurance was given by LGAN President and Chairperson of the AACT 2026 Local Organising Committee, Dr Lami Onayi Ahmed, during a media briefing in Abuja.
Ahmed dismissed concerns that the continental golf championship could be moved to another venue, assuring participating golfers that the tournament would take place at what she described as Nigeria’s premier golf course.
The IBB International Golf and Country Club has remained closed following an order issued by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, last year.
However, the LGAN president said preparations for the tournament were progressing as planned.
Two members of the IBB International Golf and Country Club Board of Trustees, Ekanem Ekwueme and Julius Fadairo, also supported the assurance that the championship would receive the necessary backing.
Ahmed said the continental tournament would enjoy the cooperation and support of relevant government officials both within Nigeria and abroad.
AACT 2026 Schedule
The 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy is scheduled to take place from November 2 to 7, with a series of activities planned throughout the championship week.
According to the Local Organising Committee, the opening day will feature the arrival and accreditation of participating teams, as well as practice sessions.
The second day will include a supporters’ game, a Captains and Managers meeting, flag-hoisting activities and the official opening ceremony.
The championship itself will take place during the subsequent days, alongside a delegates’ meeting, prize presentation and other official activities.
The tournament will conclude with the lowering of the flag and a closing banquet.
Ahmed said the event was designed to showcase Nigeria beyond golf, highlighting its potential in international sports, sports tourism, women’s and youth development, business and investment, culture and hospitality.
She also described the tournament as an opportunity to promote friendship and cooperation among African countries.
LGAN Proposes N547m Budget
The LGAN president disclosed that the proposed budget for hosting AACT Nigeria 2026 is N547 million.
She said the organising body is seeking financial and in-kind contributions from government agencies, corporate organisations, development partners and individuals to successfully deliver the championship.
Ahmed also assured participating countries that adequate arrangements were being made to ensure the safety and comfort of players, officials and visitors.
She said the Local Organising Committee was working with relevant government institutions and security agencies to establish coordinated security and logistical arrangements throughout the tournament.
Plans are also being made for official transportation, accommodation, medical services, accreditation, protocol and other operational needs.
30 African Countries Expected
About 30 African countries are expected to participate in the week-long championship.
Each participating nation is expected to field a team of three players for the continental competition.
The organisers said preparations would continue ahead of the November tournament as Nigeria seeks to use the AACT to strengthen its position as a destination for international sporting events and sports tourism.
