Ibadan will take centre stage in Nigerian amateur golf as the city prepares to host the second edition of the Sun Open Amateur Golf Tournament at the Ibadan Golf Club, Onireke.
The three-day event, sponsored by the High Performance Centre and Sports Leadership Hub (HPCSLH), is expected to draw amateur golfers from across the country and will serve as a qualifying tournament for the 2026 Qatar Open Golf Championship.
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Speaking at a press briefing on Wednesday, the convener, Dr Bob Olukoya, confirmed that more than 100 golfers have already registered, underlining growing interest in the competition.
“The Sun Open is part of a national qualifying series that will produce Nigeria’s representative for the Qatar Open in 2026. The last qualifier was held in Port Harcourt, and this year it is coming to Ibadan,” Olukoya said.
He explained that the overall winner in Ibadan will earn the right to represent Nigeria at the Qatar Open, scheduled for April 2–4, 2026, where they will compete across various handicap categories.
Olukoya also revealed that the Oyo State Government has thrown its weight behind the tournament, noting that the governor and some cabinet members are active golfers.
“The state government is fully behind this tournament, and we are grateful for that support,” he added.
The press briefing was attended by key stakeholders in Nigerian golf, including the Chairman of the Oyo State Golf Association, Mr Moses Ojo, Ibadan Golf Club Treasurer, Mr Mike Babalola, former Oyo State Sports Council General Manager, Mr Gboyega Makinde, and Mr Dolapo Junior of Abeokuta Golf Club.
Ibadan Golf Club Captain, Mr Seyi Alaba, welcomed the decision to stage the tournament in the ancient city, describing it as a major boost for the club and the state.
“This is a big deal for us and a strong endorsement of the quality of our facility,” Alaba said. “We are excited to host an event of this magnitude.”
He assured players and officials that preparations are almost complete, with the course and supporting infrastructure nearing full readiness.
“As of today, we are about 95 per cent ready. We have paid close attention to course conditions, hospitality and logistics to ensure a world-class experience for everyone,” he said.
The Sun Open Amateur Golf Tournament is expected to further elevate the profile of amateur golf in Nigeria while offering local players a rare opportunity to earn international exposure through qualification for the Qatar Open.
