History of Golf in Nigeria

The story

How golf came to Nigeria

The history of this game in Nigeria dates back to the 20th century when the British colonial masters came with the introduction to the country. Chief Anthony Enahoro, who was a minister in the then Western Region government and is believed to be one of the first Nigerians to play golf in the country as recorded by Professional Golfers Association (PGA) Tour Nigeria.

Thereafter, the foundation of different golf courses in Nigeria today emerged from the city of Lagos to Abuja the federal capital territory where the facilities for the sport were constructed to support avid golfers. The aim of the golf clubs was sorely to provide adequate recreational facilities for Nigerian golfers.

Golf game can be played by any number of individuals but a typical group playing the game should have the number of 1 to 4 people playing in the round. It requires 2 hours of playing for 9-hole round and 4 hours for 18 holes.

In recent times, Nigeria has made a name in the golf sport both locally and internationally through the performance of Georgia Oboh, who finished third at the U.S. Kids Golf Teen World Championship in 2015.

Today in Nigeria, golf is a versatile sport that has attained a prominent level alongside the country’s most popular sports. The game has earned popularity through the ability of the international players from the country.

Other yearly golf competitions are Lagos Amateur Open Golf Championship and The Nigeria Cup which is a golf Club’s founded in Ikoyi, Lagos and holds annual golfing tournament, which commemorates Nigeria’s Independence anniversary-celebrating the country’s heritage and golf.

Some professional golfers had won a trophy on different occasions in Lagos Amateur Open Golf Championship. J. Ajiboye won the trophy in 1969, 1972, 1973, 1975 and 1979; Samuel Amadi also won in 1997, 1999, 2001, 2007 and 2010, while Monday Eze in 2014 and Uche Eze 2015, won the desired title.

Of all the golf trophies won, the highest record titles holders and Champion Trophy winners for the sports are Samuel Amadi and J. Ajiboye.