ECN backs Nigeria’s hosting of 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy
The Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) has reaffirmed its willingness to partner with the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN) in preparation for Nigeria’s hosting of the All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT) in 2026. Director-General of the Commission, Mustapha Abdullahi, made the commitment when the LGAN President, Lami Ahmed, led members of the association on […]
The Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria, Mustapha Abdullahi, received the President of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria, Lami Onayi Ahmed, and members of her delegation ahead of Nigeria’s hosting of the All Africa Challenge Trophy
The Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) has reaffirmed its willingness to partner with the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN) in preparation for Nigeria’s hosting of the All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT) in 2026.
Director-General of the Commission, Mustapha Abdullahi, made the commitment when the LGAN President, Lami Ahmed, led members of the association on a courtesy visit to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
Abdullahi emphasised that sports remain an effective instrument for promoting national unity, youth engagement and international cooperation, noting that such initiatives align with the Federal Government’s broader development agenda. He commended LGAN for securing the hosting rights for the 2026 edition of the continental women’s golf championship, describing the feat as a positive step in projecting Nigeria’s image globally.
According to him, hosting major international sporting competitions offers multiple benefits, including stimulating tourism, enhancing the use of existing sports infrastructure and strengthening Nigeria’s ability to organise large-scale continental tournaments.
“Sports diplomacy plays a significant role in national development, and we are proud to support initiatives that promote African unity and reinforce Nigeria’s leadership position on the continent,” Abdullahi said.
He added that the Commission would continue to back initiatives that encourage youth participation in sports, promote women’s leadership and contribute to national development.
Earlier, Ahmed disclosed that Nigeria would host the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy from Nov. 1 to Nov. 7 at the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja. She said the championship is expected to attract golfers from more than 30 African countries.
Ahmed described the event as Africa’s leading women’s team golf championship, bringing together top players, officials and delegates from across the continent. She recalled that Nigeria previously hosted the tournament in 1996 at the Ikoyi Club and again in Abuja in 2010.
According to her, Nigeria secured the hosting rights after presenting a successful bid before the continental body in Morocco. She noted that the championship would further demonstrate the country’s capacity to host major international sporting competitions while promoting unity across Africa.
Ahmed also commended the National Sports Commission for supporting the event and recognising its potential contribution to Nigeria’s sports economy.
During the visit, Ahmed presented an appreciation award to Abdullahi and invited him to serve as an ambassador for the 2026 championship.
Members of the LGAN delegation included Julie Donli, Maryam Shehu, Halima Salihu, Wasilat Nana Abubakar, Martina Saleh, MaryRose Richard‑Obioha, Kikelomo Oluwole and Jumai Adamu, alongside members of the AACT media team.