The National Sports Commission (NSC) has pledged full support for Nigeria’s hosting of the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy, scheduled for November at the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja.
NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, gave the assurance while hosting a delegation from the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), facilitators of the hosting rights. The delegation, led by LGAN President Dr. Lami Onayi Ahmed, sought the Commission’s backing to successfully stage the continental tournament.
Explaining the significance of securing the bid, Dr. Ahmed said,
When we submitted our bidding documents in Agadir, Morocco, it was like going into the bush looking for a ‘squirrel’, but when the rights were awarded to Nigeria, we had caught an ‘elephant’ instead. Therefore, we have come to seek support in dealing with this giant animal which is beyond our expectations.”
In his response, Dikko reaffirmed the Commission’s determination to transform Nigeria into a major global sporting hub through the regular hosting of international competitions.
What you have done by securing this hosting right aligns with the vision of the Commission under the Renewed Hope Initiative for Nigeria Sports Economy (RHINSE) platform and the shared prosperity disposition of the President, who has mandated us to ensure the full potential of the sports economy is harnessed,” he said.
Highlighting the economic value of hosting major tournaments, the NSC Chairman added,
To harness the sports economy, we have to host as many international tournaments as possible. The value chains of such a tournament are massive from the airport to the workers at the venue of the tournament. This is what we call sports economy, creating sports jobs, and we want to contribute at least 3% to the nation’s GDP. Moreover, this tournament will be a big PR for the country. When we host such tournaments, we open Nigeria to the whole continent. We had over 12 international tournaments in 2025.”
He further assured the association of the Commission’s commitment to providing the necessary framework for a successful event.
Our job here is to regulate. We create the enablers to ensure that every sport has the opportunity to develop. We have nothing like big or small sports here. Be assured that we will give you the necessary support because you are showcasing the country to the world. Our team will engage you further and ensure that we come up with the appropriate committee to make this a success,” Dikko stated.
The NSC Chairman also commended the association for its efforts in developing female golfers and applauded Nigerian women athletes for consistently making the nation proud.
At least 30 African countries have already indicated interest in the tournament, which will serve as a platform for amateur golfers across the continent to gain exposure and be assessed by the international governing body.
