Dolphin Golf Club revives tournament after four decades

By Philip Nwosu

The Dolphin Golf Club has successfully revived a major golf tournament last held in 1983, marking a significant return of the competition to Nigeria’s golfing calendar.

Speaking during the event, the Club Captain, Dr Joseph Ogbe, described the tournament as a deliberate effort to nurture young and upcoming golfers while restoring a long-abandoned competition.

According to him, the tournament had not been played in the country for over four decades, making its revival a landmark achievement under his leadership.

“This tournament was last played in 1983 in Nigeria. Since then, it has not been held. As the captain of this club, I felt it was important to bring it back, especially for young players who aspire to become professionals,” he said.

Ogbe noted that the competition with the theme Open Chest was designed to provide a platform for budding golfers to test their skills and gain exposure, adding that the level of participation and performance exceeded expectations.

“The performance is wonderful. The players did very well,” he stated.

Assessing the overall standard of the tournament, the club captain expressed satisfaction, describing it as one of the highest levels attainable in the golfing community.

“This is the highest level you can talk about as far as golfing families are concerned,” he added.
The revival of the tournament is expected to boost grassroots development in golf and inspire a new generation of players across Nigeria.

Also speaking at the event, Commodore Clifford Akaleme commended organisers for the successful hosting of the maiden Caddies Golf Tournament at the Dolphin Golf Club, describing it as a significant milestone for the club.

Speaking after the event, Akaleme said the competition marked a new chapter in the club’s sporting activities, adding, “I would say it is awesome. We’ve not had this kind of competition here before, and to the glory of God, this one is a big plus to the club, and we are happy to have hosted it.”

The retired commodore also praised the standard of play exhibited by the young participants, noting that they represent the future of professional golf in Nigeria.

His words: “These guys are upcoming professionals. I played with some of them, and the way they dealt with me, I felt I should go back and start again.”

He expressed confidence in their potential, adding that the players have what it takes to become the next generation of professional golfers.

“I think we have hope in their play, and they will become the new professionals in our future game,” he said.

Akaleme further urged the club’s management to sustain the momentum by organising more competitions, emphasising the unique appeal of the club.

“Dolphin is a special club. It is located in a barracks and has a serene atmosphere by the sea. People may underrate the club at first, but after playing here, they leave with a positive impression,” he added.
He noted that with increased competition and continued development, the club could exceed expectations and strengthen its position within Nigeria’s golfing community.