Popoola emerges champion at TYB Captain’s inaugural golf tournament

Abiola Popoola emerged overall winner of the TYB Captain’s Inaugural Golf Tournament held at the Tukur Yusuf Buratai International Golf Resort and Country Club, Abuja, after an impressive performance at the week-long championship. It will be recaalled that Popoola, who played off handicap 18, returned 84 gross and 66 nett to clinch the overall top […]

Abiola Popoola emerged overall winner of the TYB Captain’s Inaugural Golf Tournament held at the Tukur Yusuf Buratai International Golf Resort and Country Club, Abuja, after an impressive performance at the week-long championship.
It will be recaalled that Popoola, who played off handicap 18, returned 84 gross and 66 nett to clinch the overall top prize at the tournament, which began on Monday and ended on Saturday.
Speaking after his victory, Popoola expressed delight at winning the prestigious tournament and commended the Club Captain, Brig.-Gen. Nicholas Ashinze, for his leadership and commitment to improving facilities at the club.
“I feel honoured to emerge winner of this prestigious tournament. The competition was tough, but I stayed focused throughout the rounds,” Popoola said.
“I commend the captain for the excellent work he is doing. His leadership has brought remarkable improvements to the club and inspired members.”
Ashinze described the tournament as a platform for promoting leadership, sportsmanship, and unity among golfers and stakeholders.
“It is a privilege to host this inaugural tournament. Our vision is to build a world-class golfing environment for members and guests,” he said.
“We will continue to improve facilities and strengthen the spirit of camaraderie that makes this club unique.”
Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Maj.-Gen. Godwin Umelo (Rtd), also praised participants, sponsors, and officials for contributing to the success of the event.
“This tournament marks a significant milestone for the club. The overwhelming support from golfers and sponsors made the competition memorable,” Umelo said.
“We are proud of the standard displayed throughout the tournament and grateful to everyone who contributed to its success.”
Vice Captain of the club, Dr. Ali Peters, appreciated guests, sponsors, and players for their support and acknowledged key personalities whose contributions helped make the event successful.
Ali particularly commended the Grand Patron of the club and Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, for his leadership and unwavering support. He also appreciated the Patron of the club, Maj.-Gen. V.U. Okoro, for his guidance and encouragement.
“We are delighted with the success of this inaugural tournament. The turnout and level of participation were outstanding,” he said.
“The successful planning and execution of this inaugural tournament marks the realization of a long-nurtured vision for TYB-IGRCC.
“With the participation of distinguished local and international golfers, our Club is steadily cementing its reputation as a premier golfing destination in Nigeria.
“I am grateful to the Life Patron, Grand Patron, Patron, Past Grand Patrons, Past Patrons, and Past Captains.
“My heartfelt thanks also goes to Shehu Dikko, the Chairman, National Sports Commission (NSC), and Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, the President of Nigeria Golf Federation (NGF).
“The dedication and commitment also shown by members, sponsors, and the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) reflects the bright future of TYB-IGRCC as a leading golf destination,” he said.
Other winners at the tournament included F.F. Ogu, who won the Men’s Category One best nett prize, while J.A. Bello claimed the best gross award.
In the ladies category, Faridah Wada emerged best nett winner, Patience Abechi won best gross, and Andrew Odoh secured victory in the professional category.
Highlights of the tournament included the inauguration of the club’s 19th Hole Premium Lounge by the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Lt.-Gen. Emmanuel Undiandeye, and the commissioning of a newly constructed bridge linking Hole Three fairway and Hole Four tee-box.