Mrs Tinubu made the remarks on Tuesday during the official opening ceremony of the championship at the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja, where golfers from 20 African countries have gathered for the competition.
Expressing her delight at Nigeria’s opportunity to host the prestigious tournament once again, the First Lady said the development reflected the trust the African golfing community has in the country’s organisational capacity, unity and commitment to sporting excellence.
She also highlighted the importance of the championship’s theme, “Uniting Africa Through the Greens,” noting that golf provides an opportunity for people from different countries and backgrounds to come together.
According to her, the sport goes beyond competition, promoting friendship, mutual respect and a stronger sense of shared African identity.
Mrs Tinubu also applauded the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria for introducing the Girls in Golf Legacy Project, describing it as an important step towards encouraging more young girls to embrace the sport.
The initiative is expected to introduce 300 girls to golf across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, creating opportunities for them to develop their talents and potentially pursue careers in the game.
Speaking as a mother and an advocate for women and girls, she said the project would help open doors for the next generation while giving more young females the opportunity to participate in sports.
Addressing the participating golfers, the First Lady encouraged them to compete with passion, uphold the spirit of fair play and demonstrate good sportsmanship throughout the tournament.
She also urged the visiting players to make the most of their stay in Nigeria by exploring the country’s tourist attractions, experiencing its diverse culture and enjoying the hospitality of its people.
She expressed hope that the competition would strengthen relationships among African nations, adding that the ultimate goal should go beyond winning trophies to building lasting bonds across the continent.
Other speakers at the event, including the President of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria, Dr Lami Onayi, and the President of the Nigeria Golf Federation, Otunba Segun Runsewe, also stressed the unifying power of golf.
They called for greater participation in the sport across all age groups and among both men and women, while noting the growing impact and achievements of Nigerian female golfers.
The opening ceremony also featured a ceremonial tee-off involving the First Lady, other dignitaries and some of the 300 young girls participating in the Girls in Golf Legacy Project.
The 2026 All-Africa Challenge Golf Trophy, which has brought together female golfers from across the continent, is scheduled to end on Saturday, November 7, 2026.
