The 2023 edition of the IBB Independence Golf and Tennis tournament has kicked off in Abuja, with over 500 players from Nigeria and four other countries vying for the top prize; a brand new car from PAN Nigeria Ltd.
The prestigious event is taking place at the IBB International Golf and Country Club and features both tennis and golf tournaments.
The tennis tournament began on September 15th and the golf event’s grand finale will be held on October 1st.
According to Banjo Obaleye, the IBB Golf Club Captain, this year’s tournament is set to be a remarkable event.
The Club, as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and in partnership with the government, has organized the 2023 Independence Golf and Tennis Tournament.
The objectives of the tournament are noble, as it seeks to commemorate Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Anniversary, boost the country’s international image, and use sports as a platform to promote unity, security, and peaceful co-existence among all Nigerians.
The event also aims to boost the Nigerian economy and showcase the business opportunities available in the country.
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This year’s tournament features a record number of over 500 golfers, with players coming from Rwanda, Cameroon, Uganda, and Ghana.
The IBB Independence Golf Tournament has long been a highlight on Nigeria’s golfing calendar, attracting top talents and participants from near and far.
Obaleye said that the tournament showcases the beauty of golf in Nigeria and serves as a platform to nurture young talents.
The tournament is committed to sustainability, with eco-friendly initiatives on the course, and the breathtaking views of the golf course and the serene atmosphere make it a standout event.
The tournament is offering a brand new car as the grand overall prize, courtesy of PAN Nigeria Ltd, the donor of this star prize.
Ibrahim Babayo, the Chairman of the Organizing Committee and the Club’s Vice Captain, assured the golfers, media, and the public of a “showstopper event.”
Babayo expressed his excitement for the calibre and enthusiasm of the tournament’s sponsors.
Shola Adebayo, the Competition Secretary, stated that the amateurs’ category is divided into four categories, with the first category comprising of a handicap of 0 to 10 and the fourth category comprising of a handicap of 30 to 54.
The professionals will be playing over two days, and the winning stake for the men is $4,000, and $1,000 for the ladies.
The star prize, which is the vehicle donated by PAN Nigeria Ltd., will be won by the best nett playing between handicaps 0 to 18.
The winners of the various categories will receive mouth-watering prizes and trophies.
The tournament’s format of play is stroke play, and the event also includes an ‘inter-country match play’ featuring Nigeria and the four other countries.
The doubles match play will be on Friday, while the singles match play will be on Saturday.
The ceremonial tee-off will take place on Sunday at 9 a.m. with some dignitaries, including Sen. John Owan-Enoh, the Minister of Sports Development, expected to represent the President.
The Chief of Army Staff and Captains of Industries, as well as members of the Diplomatic community, will also participate in the tournament.
