Over 350 golfers set to compete in Ibom Open tournament

More than 350 golfers will compete in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, as the 2026 Ibom Open Golf Tournament kicks off.

Usenobong Akpabio, the chairman of the organizing committee, announced on Tuesday that the tournament will take place from June 4 to June 7.

Mr Akpabio said this tournament gives golfers a chance to achieve more in the sport. He mentioned that it will be special, adding, "one of our sponsors, Uganda Air, has promised a business class return ticket for winners."

He also shared that the tournament has drawn more participants due to the success of the 2025 event. "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 noted that around 40 trophies will be awarded in different categories throughout the four-day event.

Isuah Archibong, the Captain of Ibom Golf and Country Club, spoke during the briefing. He said that the tournament has become a key part of 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, representing Ship Afrika, said the main goal of the event is to promote tourism and boost economic growth in the state.

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

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