AACT 2026: Wike’s Support Raises Hopes for Women’s and Junior Golf Development

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has pledged the administration’s support for the successful hosting of the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT), as well as the long-term development of women’s and junior golf in Nigeria, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Wike gave the assurance when he received a delegation of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), led by its President, Dr Lami Onayi Ahmed, at his official residence in Life Camp, Abuja, ahead of the continental championship.

At the meeting, the minister pledged support for the construction of a permanent office for LGAN and expressed willingness to assist the association in securing facilities to advance junior golf development in the FCT.

He also agreed to a 50-50 cost-sharing arrangement with the association for the use of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre for the tournament’s closing banquet and prize presentation.

On preparations for the championship, Wike assured the delegation of the FCT Administration’s commitment to supporting the event and acknowledged ongoing efforts to upgrade the IBB International Golf & Country Club, the tournament’s host venue.

He disclosed that the administration had intervened to address the deteriorating condition of the golf facility, with renovation and improvement works approximately 35 per cent complete at the time of the meeting.

According to him, the government had engaged the company originally responsible for constructing the golf course to undertake the necessary improvement works ahead of the competition.

Regarding LGAN’s request for land to establish its permanent office and support its golf development initiatives, Wike said the administration was favourably disposed to considering the proposal. He, however, stressed the need for clearly defined development timelines and firm commitments to ensure that any allocated property would be put to productive use.

The commitments are expected to strengthen LGAN’s efforts to leverage the championship as a platform for expanding women’s participation in golf, nurturing young talents and promoting grassroots  sports development across the FCT.Sports news subscription

Earlier, LGAN President, Dr Lami Onayi Ahmed, said the 2026 championship would attract golfers and delegates from more than 30 African countries, offering Abuja an opportunity to showcase its hospitality,