The Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN) is looking to partner with the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy. They want to use the 2026 All-Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT) to promote tourism, cultural exchange, and attract investment.
LGAN President Lami Onayi Ahmed shared this proposal on Tuesday in Abuja. She met with Hannatu Musawa, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, during a courtesy visit.
Under the plan, the ministry would be the Cultural Night Partner for the championship. They would create a showcase of Nigerian arts, music, fashion, and food for the participating African teams, diplomats, government officials, and international media.
LGAN also asked the ministry to officially recognize the championship as a cultural economy event. They want to include the tournament’s Sports-to-Business Investment Pavilion in Nigeria’s presentation at the upcoming Nigeria-Belgium-Luxembourg Business Forum. This event is set for 28 to 30 October in Brussels.
Musawa welcomed the proposal and promised to look into possible areas for collaboration. She highlighted that golf has benefits beyond just competition. She mentioned that it helps build resilience, fosters appreciation for nature, and promotes mental health.
“Golf is not just a sport. It is a community. It builds resilience, gives you a huge appreciation of nature, and from a mental health point of view, it is a sport that should be spread and encouraged for young Nigerians to embrace. This Cultural Night partnership falls squarely within the mandate of the ministry. This is what we want to encourage,” she said.
The minister noted that hosting the championship in Abuja offers a chance to expand Nigeria’s tourism story. She wants to highlight attractions beyond Lagos, the commercial hub of Nigeria.
According to her, the tournament will help position Abuja as a place for international visitors while creating economic opportunities for local communities.
“Abuja, being the capital of Nigeria, is a great opportunity for us to make that a staple for people to come in. We have to move that conversation away from Lagos to show what other parts of Nigeria have to offer. The local community is going to benefit as we leverage this opportunity in the FCT,” she said.
Lami Onayi Ahmed talked about the importance of the championship. She said it will promote women’s golf and Nigeria’s creative economy.
“AACT 2026 is more than a tournament. It is Africa’s premier platform where sport meets culture, tourism, and investment. By partnering with the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, we are ensuring that the world sees the richness of Nigerian creativity while creating real opportunities for our youth, artisans, and entrepreneurs,” she said.
Ahmed added that hosting the championship in Abuja would allow Nigeria to showcase its cultural heritage and leadership in Africa.
The 2026 All-Africa Challenge Trophy, approved by the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, is set to take place from 2 to 7 November at the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja.
Organizers expect over 30 African national delegations, diplomats, government representatives, and international media members to attend this week-long event. It will combine competitive golf with cultural exchanges and business activities.
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