Abuja golf reporters urge Wike to reopen IBB golf club

Golf reporters in Abuja have joined stakeholders in calling on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Hon. Nyesom Wike, to reopen the prestigious IBB International Golf & Country Club, which has remained closed for several months. The facility, regarded as one of Nigeria’s premier golf courses, was shut earlier in the year following […]

Golf reporters in Abuja have joined stakeholders in calling on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Hon. Nyesom Wike, to reopen the prestigious IBB International Golf & Country Club, which has remained closed for several months.

The facility, regarded as one of Nigeria’s premier golf courses, was shut earlier in the year following a prolonged leadership tussle. The Minister’s intervention—ordering closure for renovation and a membership review—was initially hailed as a necessary step to restore peace and order.

On April 5, 2025, Wike reconstituted the club’s Board of Trustees (BoT), naming Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, President of the Court of Appeal, as Chairperson, replacing Gen. IBM Haruna. Other appointees include Otunba Segun Runsewe, Mrs. Grace Ihonvbere, S.I. Ameh (SAN), Hamid Abbo, Admiral Victor Adedipe (rtd), Chief Patrick Chidolue, Mr. Ben Ikokwu, and Adumu Suleiman.

However, concerns have grown over the prolonged shutdown. Investigations by reporters revealed that some members are struggling health-wise due to lack of exercise, while staff have been left in financial distress, losing their main source of livelihood.

In a joint statement, the Abuja-based golf reporters appealed: “We call on His Excellency, the people’s Minister, Mr. Fix-It, to please temper justice with mercy by reopening the club. This will not only help avert untimely deaths due to inactivity but also restore livelihoods and bring back excitement and joy to the community.”