Golfers

Abuja, November 7, 2026 (www.crestnewsonline.ng) Neema Olomi from Tanzania on Sunday in Abuja took charge with a score of 74 to lead the pack as the 2026 Ladies Open got underway.

This was barely several hours after the conclusion of the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT) at the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja.

Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, the Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), had earlier in the day performed the ceremonial tee-off in company of top government officials, members of private organisations and sponsors.

Then, she had said the championship would further strengthen the bond among lady golfers across the continent. 

Eyesan commended the organisers, the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), for sustaining the yearly competition despite financial constraints.

She was also grateful to the LGAN for putting Nigeria first during the just-concluded AACT, where players from 20 African countries attended. 

Also, speaking at the occasion, President of LGAN, Dr. Lami Ahmed, enjoined the golfers to compete without rancour, describing the game as peaceful.

She said the experience gathered during the week-long AACT was enough to guide them in organising a memorable championship. 

Ahmed commended FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for allowing them to use the facilities at the IBB International Golf and Country Club for both events.

One hundred and ten amateur lady golfers are participating in the 54-hole competition.

At the end of Day 1, Olomi from Tanzania led with 74 scores, followed by Madina Husseni, who played 76 while Afi Amezedo ended her round one with  77.

Hawa Wanyeche had 79, Aala Somji and Ayne Magombe 81, Tracy Humbira 82, Ehinomhen Igbinadolor and Loveness Mungure 84, while Nigerian Diana Osmond completed the top 10 with a score of 85.(www.crestnewsonline.ng)

*Edited by Olawale Lawanson Alabi