The Nigeria Golf Federation (NGF) has announced plans to host the Nigeria Open Golf Tournament from November 16 to November 20, 2027. This marks the return of the country's biggest golf event after a two-decade hiatus. NGF President, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, revealed the tournament's revival while outlining efforts to reposition golf and elevate its standards in Nigeria. The event aims to bring together golfers from Africa, Europe, and other continents.
The Nigerian Open was previously played in Nigeria between 1969 and 1999, primarily at the Ikoyi Club in Lagos. From 1997 to 1999, the tournament was held at the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja, where it was last held. According to Runsewe, the NGF has taken time to prepare for the tournament to ensure a successful and sustainable event. The federation has implemented a rebranding strategy, including a new social media presence, website, insurance policies, and a World Handicap System (WHS) index.
The WHS initiative aims to establish a common system for golf clubs nationwide, aligning with international standards. Runsewe described this as a crucial step in internationalizing the sport. The NGF expects over 20 countries to participate in the 2027 Nigeria Open. The tournament will feature a 64-hole, four-day Pro-Am event with world ranking status and an Amateur World Ranking connection. Winners will have opportunities to qualify for international circuits, and a competitive prize purse will attract professional golfers.
The NGF has engaged consultancy and marketing firms to drive sponsorship, branding, and promotion of the tournament. Runsewe announced that the successful marketing and branding companies will be revealed within weeks. The federation deliberately delayed the tournament to build the necessary capacity for a sustainable event. Runsewe emphasized that the preparation period has paid off, ensuring a well-planned and executed tournament.
The Nigeria Open will prioritize youth development, addressing the longstanding gap between younger and older generations of golfers. The NGF will embark on a coaching education program for professionals and golf academy coaches. Runsewe stressed that golf coaching training is mandatory and increasingly technology-driven, and Nigeria must keep pace with global developments. The federation aims to modernize golf coaching in Nigeria, leveraging technology to enhance training.
Runsewe expressed appreciation to stakeholders and practitioners supporting the NGF's efforts. The tournament's return is expected to boost golf's popularity in Nigeria and Africa. The NGF has identified Lakowe Golf Resort, Lagos, as a possible host venue, with 150-200 golfers expected to participate. The event's success will depend on effective execution and participation from golfers worldwide.
The 2027 Nigeria Open marks a new beginning for golf in Nigeria and Africa, according to Runsewe. The tournament's revival and rebranding efforts aim to elevate the sport's standards and internationalize its reach. With a strong focus on youth development, modernized coaching, and competitive play, the Nigeria Open is poised to become a premier golfing event in Africa.
Key points
- The Nigeria Open Golf Tournament will return after two decades, with over 20 countries expected to participate.
- The tournament will prioritize youth development and modernized coaching.
- The event aims to elevate golf's standards in Nigeria and Africa, with a focus on internationalization.
