Navy seeks inclusion of ENC Golf tourney in Cross River tourism calendar

The Nigerian Navy has called for the annual Eastern Naval Command (ENC) Golf Tournament to be formally included in the tourism calendar of Cross River, citing its growing potential to boost visitor traffic and revenue. The call was made by a former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Dele Ezeoba (rtd), at the 2026 edition […]

The Nigerian Navy has called for the annual Eastern Naval Command (ENC) Golf Tournament to be formally included in the tourism calendar of Cross River, citing its growing potential to boost visitor traffic and revenue.

The call was made by a former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Dele Ezeoba (rtd), at the 2026 edition of the tournament held on Sunday at the Calabar Golf Course. Ezeoba praised the organisers for staging a competition that drew golfers from across the country, noting that with sustained support, the event could evolve into a major tourism attraction.

He urged the Cross River Government to partner with the organisers to strengthen funding, expand participation and further develop the golf course. According to him, golf promotes healthy living, stressing that players aged 81 and above successfully completed nine holes during the tournament.

Ezeoba explained that the championship forms part of the annual engagements of naval flag officers but requires a more sustainable funding framework beyond the Navy’s internal resources.

Also speaking, the Flag Officer Commanding, ENC, Rear Admiral Chiedozie Okehie, disclosed that the 2026 edition attracted 152 golfers nationwide. He said the tournament fostered fitness and networking, adding that the expansive course could host major competitions.

Deputy Governor Peter Odey commended the organisation of the event and urged participants to project Cross River as a prime destination for tourism and investment.

The overall winner, Assistant Comptroller of Customs Tuesday Achukwu, credited his victory to early arrival, practice and perseverance.