Abuja, Nigeria: As part of the celebrations marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, passionate golf enthusiasts have donated new facilities to the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja, thereby enhancing the club’s infrastructure and overall sporting experience.
The facilities include a Back Nine Starter shed and a Halfway House.
The club also unveiled a new golf bay and modern practice range.
The infrastructure was commissioned on Friday by former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Faruk Yahaya (rtd).
Brig.-Gen. Mustapha Onoyiveta (rtd), former Aide de Camp to late President Umar Musa Yar’Adua, donated the back-nine starter shed.
He stated that the project was designed to streamline tournament operations and enhance the player experience.
“This initiative is about giving back to the game and the community,” Onoyiveta said.
“The back-nine starter streamlines tee-off logistics, improves player flow and provides a rest point.”
“Golf is still developing in Nigeria. This is one way to support its growth.”
Businessman Chief Samuel Ayanmele, also known as Onwa Ngwa, donated the halfway house.
He said the structure would provide comfort to players during unfavourable weather.
“The first time I played here, I noticed golfers had no shelter when it rained,” Ayanmele said.
“That inspired me to build a halfway house for rest and refreshments.”
“I’ve done similar projects at Karishi and Naval Golf Course. Golf builds character and teaches discipline.”
Commissioning the facilities, Yahaya praised the donors for their contributions to golf development in Nigeria.
“These donations are timely and commendable,” he said. They reflect service to both the military and the game of golf, which promotes discipline and wellness.
“As we mark Nigeria at 65, this shows what public-private collaboration can achieve.”
“Golf aligns with military values: strategy, patience and endurance. I encourage more participation from officers and civilians.”
Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Dr James Agbonhese, said over 400 golfers would take part in the week-long tournament.
He said the event would also honour serving and retired Nigerian Army officers.
“The tournament begins on September 27 with Category 3 and 4 players.
The TYB Professionals and Invitational event will be held on September 28.
“The main event takes place on October 1, Nigeria’s Independence Day, with Category 1 players competing.
“A sponsor guests’ round will follow it, then an award night and prize presentation,” he said.
Agbonhese added that over 100 female golfers, including three professionals, are expected to participate.