Over 350 golfers set to compete in Ibom Open Golf Tournament

No less than 350 golfers will compete for prizes in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, as the 2026 Ibom Open Golf Tournament kicks off.

Usenobong Akpabio, who chairs the Organising Committee, announced in Uyo on Tuesday that the tournament will take place from 4 June to 7 June.

Mr Akpabio explained that the tournament gives golfers a chance to achieve more in the sport.

He added that this year's event will be special, stating, "one of our sponsors, Uganda Air, has promised a business class return ticket for winners."

The chairman noted that the tournament saw increased participation due to last year's success.

"We were targeting 300 participants, but in just one week, we had about 350 registrants. We still have people seeking to be part of the tournament," he said.

Mr Akpabio also mentioned that about 40 trophies will be given out in different categories during the four-day event.

Supporting the Local Agenda

During the briefing, the Captain of Ibom Golf and Country Club, Isuah Archibong, said the tournament helps promote the Akwa Ibom Government’s ARISE Agenda.

Mr Archibong expressed gratitude to Ship Afrika for sponsoring the event for the past three years. He said, "this event is showcasing Akwa Ibom as a golf destination."

Ubong Ekwere, who represents Ship Afrika, explained that the main goal of the event is to boost tourism and help the economy grow in the state.

"Sponsoring this tournament is our company’s corporate social responsibility to the state and the nation at large," he said.

He also thanked other sponsors and partners for their support in keeping the tournament going over the years.