Mercy Yohanna’s triumph at the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN) President’s 2025–2027 Exco Inaugural Invitational Kitty in Abuja was more than a tournament win — it was a statement of intent for women’s golf in Nigeria.
Competing at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Golf Club, Yohanna, playing off handicap 28, returned 93 gross and an impressive 65 net to emerge overall winner in a fiercely contested field.
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Her victory headlined an event that drew nearly 200 golfers and effectively set the tone for a new LGAN administration determined to reposition women’s golf nationally and continentally.
“I feel very excited about winning this prestigious kitty. The competition was keen, and I had to stay focused throughout the round,” Yohanna said, attributing her performance to patience and discipline, particularly on the back nine.
Competition Reflects Growing Depth
Beyond Yohanna’s win, the tournament revealed increasing competitiveness across divisions. S.J. Marcus finished second in Ladies Division One on countback after posting 81 gross and 67 net, while Justina Gideon claimed Best Gross with 73. Pat Ozoemene secured runner-up gross honours with 75.
Lydia Anenga topped Division Two, as Udoo Ugbor and Helen Mark claimed the Veteran Ladies and Veteran Women titles respectively.
In the men’s category, A.O. Ayanbode delivered 79 gross and 63 net to win Division One ahead of E.O. Alade, while Chief Samuel Anyamele (Onwa) captured the Super Veteran title.
N10m Boost for All Africa Challenge Trophy
However, the defining moment of the tournament came off the fairways.
Chief Anyamele announced a N10 million donation to support Nigeria’s hosting of the All-Africa Challenge Trophy, scheduled for November 1–7 at the IBB International Golf and Country Club.
The biennial championship, powered by the R&A, will see over 20 African nations converge on Abuja.
“Hosting Africa is a big deal. It allows us to market Nigeria positively and correct negative perceptions,” Anyamele said, describing his donation as a patriotic contribution toward national development.
He stressed that the championship extends beyond sport, highlighting its tourism and economic potential for hotels, transport operators and small businesses.
“This is beyond sports. It is about economic growth, tourism, and national image,” he added.
Leadership Sets Strategic Tone
LGAN President Dr. Lami Onayi Ahmed described the Valentine’s Day-themed kitty as a celebration of unity and sportsmanship, while reaffirming her executive’s commitment to expanding women’s golf participation across Nigeria.
She characterised the upcoming continental championship as a “national assignment,” positioning Nigeria not just as host, but as a standard-bearer for Africa.
Chairman of the event, Engr. Andrew Yakubu, commended the executive’s organisational capacity, expressing confidence in their ability to deliver a successful championship.
AVM B.D. Solomon, Captain of the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Golf Club, said the impressive turnout reflected the growing strength of women’s golf in the country and pledged continued institutional support.
LGAN Public Relations Officer Igbierebo Ogolo noted that preparations for November began with a world press conference and logo unveiling at TYB International Golf Resort and Country Club, followed by a retreat and the inaugural kitty.
“With November approaching, we are fully prepared to host Africa and showcase Nigeria’s organisational strength and hospitality,” she said.
More Than a Tournament
The event also featured the decoration of newly inaugurated executive members and the induction of All Africa Challenge Trophy ambassadors. Prince Vince Osawe added flair to the occasion with a celebrated hole-in-one on Hole 13.
In essence, Yohanna’s victory symbolised the competitive spirit on the course, while the N10 million pledge and administrative momentum underscored a broader ambition: to elevate Nigerian golf onto the continental stage.
With November fast approaching, LGAN’s message is clear — the groundwork has been laid, the leadership is aligned, and Nigeria is preparing to host Africa with intent and confidence
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