By Victor Okoye
Abuja, April 4, 2025 (NAN) No fewer than 300 golfers from across the country are set to slug it out for honours in the 2025 IBB Captain’s Cup in Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 18-hole golf course of the prestigious IBB International Golf and Country Club Abuja will come alive once again from April 7 to April 12.
Ibrahim Babayo, the captain of IBB Golf Club, who is expected to bow out next month, told newsmen that he was elated and satisfied with what he and members of his Executive Committee have been able to achieve in the last one year.
Babayo said he would love to be remembered for the improvement the golf club witnessed since he took over in 2024.
“I am filled with happiness following the achievements we have been able to achieve and the innovations and improvement we have made to the golf course,” he said.
Addressing newsmen about the event, the chairman of the organising committee, Amb. Ben Okoyen, said the six-day tournament will bring in lots of innovations into the club, adding that despite recent uproar, the club was safe for all participants with the course ready for the commencement of the tourney.
He said the IBB Golf Club, being in the capital city of Nigeria, deserves to be the best, adding that he was happy to announce their readiness for the beginning of the competition.
“Abuja is the capital city of Nigeria, so this club should carry that image by being the best.
“This club should be able to compete with the best golf clubs anywhere in the world.
“So, we are happy to announce that we are prepared for the competition, and we assured all participants of the safety of the golf course,” he said.
Also speaking, the committee secretary, Ashir Tarfa said that over 300 golfers from across the country, including professionals, will compete for honours in the different categories of the 2025 Captain’s Cup.
“Over 300 golfers from across the country will hit Abuja to participate in the 2025 Captain’s Cup golf tournament.
“Many things have been put in place to ensure that we have a smooth competition without hitches.
“There is a N 5 million prize money for the best 10 professional golfers,” he said.
According to Tarfa, the tournament is expected to tee-off on Monday, April 7 with caddies and staff taking to the course.
He noted that there would be a course maintenance work till 12 noon on Tuesday.
“On Wednesday, April 9, it will be the turn of the men in the Division 3 category for handicap 29 and above as well as the ladies handicap 36 and above.
“On Thursday, April 10, the Super Veterans in the men and ladies categories as well as the pros will take the centre stage.
“While on Friday, April 11, the men’s division 2 category for handicap 11-28 and the ladies’ handicap 16-35 will compete on the course.
“On Saturday, the men’s handicap 0-10 and the ladies’ handicap 0-15 will square up against each other, alongside the Excos, board members, sponsors and special guests.
The ceremonial tee-off is also expected to take place on Saturday will several dignitaries expected to grace the occasion.
This will be followed by the presentation dinner at 7 p.m.(NAN)
