NGF Summit: Runsewe unveils roadmap for grassroots golf development

The Nigeria Golf Federation has unveiled a fresh roadmap aimed at repositioning golf in the country through grassroots development, youth empowerment, international standards and strategic partnerships.

The NGF President, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, OON, disclosed this at the second edition of the NGF Stakeholders’ Summit in Abuja, which brought together representatives of more than 46 golf clubs and other stakeholders.

The summit, themed “Finding the Fairway: Sustainable Growth and Youth Development,” provided an avenue for stakeholders to discuss the future of the sport and measures required to achieve sustainable growth.

Runsewe described the gathering as a defining moment for Nigerian golf, saying the federation was opening a new window of opportunity for the sustainable development of the sport.

He said the NGF was undertaking a comprehensive review covering administration, grassroots development, competitions, coaching, handicap systems, infrastructure, safety and international opportunities.

“We want to build a stronger, safer, better organised and internationally respected golf community in Nigeria,” Runsewe said.

The NGF president said grassroots and youth development remained central to the federation’s strategy, stressing the need for deliberate efforts to identify and nurture young talents.

He also announced plans to deepen partnerships with airlines, hotels and other sectors to improve tournament logistics and promote sports tourism.

Runsewe said the federation was fully supporting the forthcoming All Africa Challenge Trophy, scheduled to hold from November 1 to November 7.

According to him, the tournament will take place at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja, with Nigeria prepared to host participating countries.

He commended the President of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria, Dr Lami Onayi Ahmed, for her efforts towards ensuring a successful AACT.

The summit was attended by several prominent personalities, including His Royal Highness, Oba Sahees Ademola Elegushi, who served as the Royal Father of the event.

Also in attendance were the Chairman of Trobel Nigeria Limited, Mr Lawal Garba, who chaired the summit, and Senator Simon Bako Lalong.

The federation’s new roadmap is expected to place greater emphasis on developing the sport from the grassroots while strengthening the structures required to make Nigerian golf safer, better organised and more competitive internationally.