The Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN) is looking to work 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 diplomacy, and attract investments.
LGAN President, Lami Onayi Ahmed, presented this proposal on Tuesday in Abuja. She visited the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, to discuss the plan.
In this proposed partnership, the ministry would be the Cultural Night Partner for the championship. They would showcase Nigerian arts, music, fashion, and food to African teams, diplomats, government officials, and international media.
LGAN also asked the ministry to make the championship an official cultural economy event. They want to include the tournament’s Sports-to-Business Investment Pavilion in Nigeria’s presentation at the upcoming 2026 Nigeria-Belgium-Luxembourg Business Forum in Brussels from 28 to 30 October.
Responding to the proposal, Ms Musawa expressed her support. She said the ministry would look into collaboration opportunities.
She described golf as more than just competition. It helps build resilience, promotes an appreciation for nature, and supports mental well-being.
“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 added that hosting the championship in Abuja would help broaden Nigeria’s tourism narrative. It would also highlight attractions in areas outside Lagos.
According to her, the tournament will position the Federal Capital Territory as a place for international visitors and create 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 take advantage of this opportunity in the FCT,” she said.
Talking about the event's importance, Ms Ahmed said the championship will help 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.
She also mentioned that hosting the championship in Abuja would let Nigeria showcase its cultural heritage and leadership on the continent.
The 2026 All-Africa Challenge Trophy, backed by the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, will 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 to attend the week-long event. It will combine competitive golf with cultural exchanges and business engagement activities.
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