African Envoys Golf Tourney: Enikanolaiye, Others Set to Storm Uyo
By Ekanem Asuquo
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, is among the high profile dignitaries expected to attend the League of African Ambassadors Fundraising Golf Tournament scheduled for Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Ambassador Ben Okoyen, said Enikanolaiye would attend the tournament as a special guest alongside members of the diplomatic community, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma and Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno.
Okoyen said the tournament is expected to attract more than 150 golfers, with overall participation projected at about 350 people, including African diplomats, corporate leaders, government officials and representatives of various agencies.
He said the event would go beyond the sporting contest by creating an avenue for participants to network, exchange ideas and discuss issues concerning Africa's development.
“We expect far more than 150 persons. We are expecting in the neighbourhood of 350 or thereabouts,” he said.
He added that preparations had been intensified for the opening ceremony, golf tournament, closing ceremony, fundraising and award dinners, as well as a showcase of Akwa Ibom's rich cultural heritage.
According to him, participants are expected to arrive on August 28, while the opening game is scheduled for August 29 and the finals for August 30.
Okoyen said business leaders, corporate organisations and government officials would use the platform provided by golf to interact with members of the diplomatic community.
The choice of Uyo as host city, particularly the Ibom Golf Course, has also attracted commendation from stakeholders in the sport. Chairman of the FCT Golf Association, Akabom Enobong, described the facility as one of the finest golf resorts in West Africa, citing its serene environment and suitability for high level engagements.
He said the resort provides an atmosphere conducive to relaxation, strategic thinking and meaningful conversations, away from the busy environments of Lagos and Abuja.
Okoyen explained that the tournament was not solely about fundraising but formed part of a broader League of African Ambassadors initiative aimed at promoting solidarity, dialogue and the advancement of the African cause.
He said the event would also provide an opportunity to strengthen relationships among the diplomatic community, government, corporate organisations and other stakeholders.
The tournament remains open to registration and corporate partnerships, with trophies to be presented to outstanding performers across various categories.
Additional attractions include return flight tickets to destinations such as London, Barbados and Ghana, provided through participating airlines, including Ibom Air, Air Peace and Arik Air.
