By Victor Okoye
More than 400 golfers are set to compete in the Nigeria @ 65 Independence Golf Tournament at the Tukur Yusuf Buratai International Golf Resort and Country Club (TYB-IGRCC), Abuja.
The week-long tournament, organised to mark Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary, will also honour retired and serving officers of the Nigerian Army.
Dr James Agbonhese, Chairman, Local Organising Committee (LOC), told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday that the tournament aims to promote unity, camaraderie and national pride.
“This is more than a sporting competition. It is a reflection of our national values; unity, perseverance, discipline and excellence,” Agbonhese said.
He said the event would also feature the commissioning of new facilities at the resort, including a midway hut, a modern golf practice range, a back nine starter shed and a golf cart bay.
Agbonhese commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, Grand Patron of the tournament, for his unwavering support.
Dr Ali Peters, Vice Chairman of TYB Golf Club, who represented the Club Captain, Maj.-Gen. Samson Jiya, said the event was a symbolic tribute to the military’s role in safeguarding national unity.
“As we celebrate, we must reflect on the legacy of our founding fathers and the sacrifices that brought us this far,” Peters said.
He added that the new facilities would greatly improve the golfing experience for members and visitors.
Jummai Adamu, a member of the LOC, said more than 100 female golfers, including three professionals, would participate in this year’s tournament, reflecting golf’s growing popularity among women in Nigeria.
Tournament Manager, Mr Shola Adebayo, said the event would feature daily games, networking sessions and cultural showcases.
“It’s set to deliver not just top-level golf but an unforgettable experience for everyone involved,” he said.
The tournament tees off on Sept. 27 and will conclude on Oct. 1 with a ceremonial tee-off.
Expected dignitaries include the DSS Director-General, Mr Oluwatosin Ajayi; Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa; Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede; and Chief of Defence Intelligence, Maj.-Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye.
Others expected are diplomats, retired senior officers and other distinguished guests.
An award ceremony will hold later in the day to crown the tournament champion and honour winners across various categories. (NAN)
Edited by Tosin Kolade
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