Sanwo-Olu Supports Hosting of 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy in Nigeria

By Isaac Orkula Shaagee

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has pledged his administration’s support for the successful hosting of the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT) in Nigeria.
Sanwo-Olu gave the assurance on Sunday, October 18, when he received a delegation of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), led by the association’s Patron and Iyalode of Lagos, Chief Bintu-Fatima Tinubu, during a courtesy visit to Lagos House, Marina.
The governor commended LGAN for its efforts to promote women’s participation in sports and enhance Africa’s international image, expressing enthusiasm for the forthcoming championship and assuring the delegation of Lagos State Government’s support.
He also emphasised the importance of integrity, ethical conduct and maintaining proper standards, urging individuals and organisations to uphold these values in their endeavours.
The governor further encouraged individuals to pursue meaningful opportunities at every stage of life, stressing that age should not be a barrier to personal growth, ambition and achievement.
The visit highlights the growing support for Nigeria’s hosting of the championship, which will bring together women golfers from across Africa to compete for continental honours.
Speaking during the meeting, LGAN President and Chairperson of the AACT 2026 Local Organising Committee, Dr Lami Onayi Ahmed, said the championship had received endorsements from the National Sports Commission, relevant Senate and House of Representatives committees, and other stakeholders.
She also disclosed that Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, had endorsed the event and agreed to participate in its opening and closing ceremonies.
Ahmed described the tournament as an opportunity to strengthen Nigeria’s international profile, promote tourism, attract investment and stimulate economic activity, while highlighting golf’s role in developing discipline, leadership and opportunities for women.
The 2026 edition will mark the third time Nigeria has hosted the All Africa Challenge Trophy, following the 1996 championship at Ikoyi Club 1938 in Lagos and the 2010 edition at the IBB International Golf & Country Club in Abuja.
The tournament is scheduled for November 2 to 7 at the IBB International Golf & Country Club, Abuja, with about 30 African countries expected to participate.
Under the slogan “Uniting Africa through the greens,” AACT 2026 aims to bring nations together through women’s golf while creating opportunities for cultural exchange, tourism and wider continental cooperation.
With 13 days remaining, the support expressed by Lagos State adds to the backing being mobilised as Nigeria prepares to welcome Africa for a championship that extends.