Nigeria’s first lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu declaring the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT) open as she performs the ceremonial tee-off alongside other dignitaries at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja.
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has performed the ceremonial tee-off of the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT) at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja.
Speaking at the event on Tuesday, Senator Tinubu described the championship as a platform for promoting African unity, friendship and sporting excellence.
According to her, the hosting of the continental championship for the third time reflected the confidence reposed in the country by the golfing community in Africa.
She commended the President of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), Lami Ahmed, and the Local Organising Committee for their efforts towards hosting the tournament.
The Nigerian first lady also applauded LGAN’s Girls in Golf Legacy Project, which aims to introduce 300 young girls to golf across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria.
“As a mother and advocate for women and girls, I commend LGAN for this laudable initiative, which will create opportunities for the next generation of female golfers,” she said.
She urged the participants to compete with passion, uphold sportsmanship and use the championship to strengthen relationships across Africa.
Earlier, the President of the AACT, Madame Cécile Poncet, described the championship as an opportunity for African women golfers to exchange experiences, celebrate their talents and build lasting friendships.
Poncet paid tribute to late Monica Ntege, a former AACT president and acknowledged Tessa Covell, who founded the championship in 1992.
She called for unity, continuity and greater recognition of women’s golf across Africa, while commending Nigeria, LGAN and the Nigeria Golf Federation (NGF) for hosting the event.
LGAN President, Ahmed, said that Nigeria’s decision to host the championship was driven by the desire to promote unity through sports and showcase the country’s positive image.
She recalled that Nigeria previously hosted the competition in 1996 and 2010, making the 2026 edition its third.
Ahmed disclosed that 20 African countries are participating and expressed gratitude to the First Lady for her support.
“Your Excellency, having you here today has changed the narrative of golf in Africa. Your support demonstrates your commitment to women’s development and empowerment,” she said.
She said that the competition would feature three rounds of 18 holes daily, culminating in 54 holes.
According to local media reports, the highlights of the opening ceremony included the hoisting of flags by the representatives of the 20 participating countries and a ceremonial tee-off by the First Lady and other dignitaries.
The reports added that the continental women golf championship, which began on Monday, is expected to end on Saturday.
GIK/APA