CIO Golf Championship Offers N100m Prize to Attract African Golfers

The organisers of the seventh CIO Golf Championship have announced a record N100 million prize. This has drawn top African golfers to Python Golf Club in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, from November 8 to 15, 2026.

Thirty African professionals are expected to participate, along with a strong Nigerian team. This championship is boosting Nigeria’s reputation in the African golf scene. It provides big financial rewards and a chance to qualify for the prestigious Magical Kenya Open.

Ikenna Okafor, Chairman of Keves Global Leasing, called the championship Nigeria’s richest professional golf event. He highlighted its growing role in developing talent across Africa.

“The CIO Championship is the most prized professional golf event in Nigeria, with a purse of N100 million. Our commitment is to reward excellence, attract Africa’s finest players, and create opportunities for Nigerian professionals beyond our shores,” Okafor said.

He pointed out that the biggest draw of the championship is not just the money. The winner will also have a chance to participate in the Magical Kenya Open, part of the DP World Tour, which offers global visibility for local talents.

“This pathway is particularly important for Nigerian professionals who have the talent but lack regular access to international competition. We are creating a bridge between local excellence and global opportunities,” he added.

The Magical Kenya Open allows players to compete against established international golfers. This makes the CIO Championship an important platform for career growth.

Francis Epe, the defending champion and winner of the 2025 edition, spoke about the event’s rising status in Africa. He mentioned that the strong competition and generous rewards have improved Nigeria’s professional golf image.

Epe also praised the championship for highlighting Python Golf Club and showing that Nigeria can host major international events.

The week-long championship kicks off on November 8 with the Kids Championship. This shows the organisers' commitment to grassroots development in the sport.

From November 11 to 15, elite amateur and professional golfers will take the spotlight. They will compete fiercely for the N100 million prize and international recognition.