The Nigeria Open Golf Tournament is set to return in November 2027 after a 28-year absence, according to the Nigeria Golf Federation. The tournament, which was last held in 1999, is scheduled to take place from November 16 to 20, 2027. The event will be a 64-hole, four-day Pro-Am tournament with world ranking status and an Amateur World Ranking connection. This return marks a significant milestone for Nigerian golf, with the tournament having been held between 1969 and 1999.
The Nigeria Golf Federation has been preparing for the tournament as part of efforts to reposition Nigerian golf and meet international standards. President of the Nigeria Golf Federation, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, disclosed this in an interview, stating that the federation had spent time preparing for the tournament. Preparations include a new social media strategy, website, insurance policies, and the adoption of the World Handicap System index. This system will provide a common framework for golf clubs across the country.
The World Handicap System index is expected to support efforts to internationalise the sport. Runsewe stated that this is going to be a new beginning for golf in Nigeria. The tournament is expected to feature more than 20 countries from Africa, Europe, and other continents, with between 150 and 200 golfers competing. The event will offer a competitive prize purse to attract professional golfers, with winners having opportunities to qualify for international circuits.
The Nigeria Golf Federation is in discussions with Lakowe Golf Resort in Lagos as a possible venue for the event. Runsewe stated that the federation deliberately delayed the return of the tournament to build the capacity required to organise a sustainable event. The federation has engaged consultancy and marketing companies to handle sponsorship, branding, and promotion of the tournament, with the successful firms expected to be announced within weeks.
Youth development will be a major focus of the tournament and the federation's wider plans for golf. Runsewe announced plans for a coaching education programme for golf professionals and academy coaches, noting that training has become increasingly technology-driven. The programme aims to ensure that Nigeria does not lag behind in golf training.
The Nigeria Open Golf Tournament was mainly held at the Ikoyi Club in Lagos between 1969 and 1999. It later moved to the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja, for its final editions between 1997 and 1999. The tournament's return is expected to be a significant event in the golfing world.
According to Runsewe, the return of the tournament is a new beginning for golf in Nigeria. The event is expected to promote golf development in the country, with a focus on youth development and internationalisation. The tournament's success will depend on the federation's preparations and the participation of golfers from around the world.
Key points
- The Nigeria Open Golf Tournament will return in November 2027 after a 28-year absence.
- The tournament will feature more than 20 countries and 150-200 golfers.
- The event will offer a competitive prize purse and opportunities for golfers to qualify for international circuits.
