Abuja set to welcome 40 nations for 2026 All African Challenge trophy

Abuja is set to become Africa’s golfing capital as more than 40 countries prepare to converge on Nigeria for the 2026 All African Challenge Trophy (AACT), a premier tournament aimed at promoting excellence, unity and continental pride through sport. The championship is scheduled for November 1–7, 2026, at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, […]

Abuja is set to become Africa’s golfing capital as more than 40 countries prepare to converge on Nigeria for the 2026 All African Challenge Trophy (AACT), a premier tournament aimed at promoting excellence, unity and continental pride through sport.

The championship is scheduled for November 1–7, 2026, at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja, and is expected to draw elite golfers from across the continent, positioning the Federal Capital Territory as a focal point of African sporting engagement.

Addressing journalists at a press briefing at the TYB International Golf Resort and Country Club, Abuja, President of the Ladies Golfers Association of Nigeria (LGAN), Dr. Lami Onayi Ahmed, said the AACT transcends competition, serving as a platform for African unity and global visibility.

“The AACT represents more than just a tournament. It is a strategic platform to unite Africa through golf while showcasing Nigeria’s proven capacity to host world-class sporting events,” she said.

Expressing confidence in Nigeria’s hosting credentials, Dr. Ahmed added: “We are hosting to win, and with the support of every Nigerian, we will give our very best.”

Organisers described Nigeria’s successful bid as a collective national achievement, noting that the tournament provides an opportunity to project the country’s sporting strength to the world.

“We are determined to bring pride to our country, demonstrate the excellence of Africa, and reaffirm Nigeria’s status as a leading sporting nation capable of uniting the continent and the world. Though we fought hard to secure the hosting rights, we did so with Nigeria at heart. Now that we have won the bid, it is a victory for all Nigerians,” she said.

She further expressed hope that President Bola Tinubu would serve as Chief Host and officially declare the tournament open, while the First Lady performs the ceremonial tee-off to highlight the event’s celebration of women in sports.

AACT Trustee for West Central Africa, Mrs. Ekanem Ekwueme, praised LGAN for securing the hosting rights, noting that Nigeria will host the championship for the third time, following previous editions in 1996 at Ikoyi Club 1938 and in 2010 in Abuja.