By Victor Okoye
The Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN) has sought partnership and sponsorship support from Farm City for the successful hosting of the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT).
LGAN President, Dr. Lami Onayi Ahmed made the appeal when she led members of her delegation on a courtesy visit to the Chief Executive Officer of Farm City, Hon. Olanrewaju Carew, in Abuja.
Ahmed described the AACT as Africa’s premier women’s golf championship, sanctioned by The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews (R&A).
She recalled that Nigeria previously hosted the championship in Lagos in 1996 and Abuja in 2010.
“Hosting the championship again is a vote of confidence in Nigeria and in the capacity of Nigerian women to deliver a world-class continental event,” she said.
According to her, Abuja will host more than 30 African delegations from Nov. 2 to Nov. 7, comprising players, officials, diplomats, and government representatives from across the continent.
Ahmed noted that the championship would create opportunities for tourism promotion, cultural exchange, and business engagement.
“We are not merely organising a golf tournament. We are creating a platform that projects Nigeria’s culture, hospitality, and economic potential to Africa,” she said.
She added that the event aligns with Farm City’s vision of promoting recreation, entertainment, sports, and hospitality excellence in Nigeria and across Africa.
Ahmed identified the AACT Luncheon and City Tour as one of the highlights of the championship, noting that delegates and supporters would have the opportunity to visit and experience Farm City’s facilities and attractions.
“The championship offers strategic visibility for Farm City before a distinguished continental audience.
“We believe this partnership will create lasting value for both organisations and strengthen Nigeria’s sports tourism profile,” she said.
The LGAN president also appealed for financial support to provide quality and secure accommodation for visiting delegates, stressing that the comfort and safety of participants remained a top priority for the organising committee.
Responding, Carew commended LGAN for leveraging sports as a vehicle for entertainment, cultural promotion, and economic development.
He conducted members of the delegation on a tour of Farm City’s sports and recreational facilities during the visit.
Carew pledged the organisation’s readiness to support the championship and partner with LGAN towards its successful hosting.
“The AACT presents a unique opportunity to showcase Farm City to Africa and the wider world, and we are proud to be associated with it,” he said.
He described the tournament as a platform capable of driving tourism, attracting investment, and generating positive international attention for Nigeria.
“At Farm City, we believe sports can unite people, promote healthy lifestyles, and stimulate economic growth.
“We are committed to supporting initiatives that project Nigeria positively and create meaningful experiences for visitors,” Carew added.
A highlight of the visit was the decoration of Carew as an AACT Ambassador by the LGAN president.
He was also presented with an award in recognition of his contributions to sports development and youth empowerment in Nigeria. (NAN)