By Victor Okoye
The Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Abubakar Sulaiman has reaffirmed commitment to women development and inclusion.
Sulaiman spoke during a courtesy visit by the President of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), Dr Lami Ahmed, and other executives to the institute’s permanent site in Abuja.
He assured the delegation of NILDS’ readiness to support and co-host the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT) scheduled for the nation’s capital.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the championship would hold from Nov. 2 to Nov. 7, followed by the Nigerian Ladies Open Golf Championship from Nov. 7 to Nov. 10 at the IBB International Golf and Country Club.
Sulaiman said the institute would provide technical and logistical support toward successful hosting of the continental tournament.
“We are committed to initiatives promoting women empowerment, inclusion and leadership development across all sectors, including sports,” he said.
According to him, sports remain a veritable platform for advancing gender participation, youth engagement, and national development.
Sulaiman stressed the need for increased female representation in governance, policymaking, and democratic institutions across the country.
“NILDS identifies with programmes encouraging women to take active roles in leadership and nation-building,” he added.
Earlier, LGAN President, Ahmed said Nigeria secured hosting rights for the biennial championship expected to attract more than 30 African countries.
She said over 1,000 golfers, officials, diplomats, and supporters were expected in Abuja during the championship.
Ahmed described the tournament as a platform for promoting gender equity, sports diplomacy, and continental cooperation.
“The championship presents opportunities for policy engagement, women empowerment and strengthening parliamentary diplomacy across Africa,” she said.
She urged NILDS to partner the association in delivering a successful championship and advancing sports development policies for women.
Ahmed also said the partnership would help produce research and data on the economic and social impact of women’s sports events in Nigeria.
The LGAN president later presented a plaque to Sulaiman in appreciation of his support for women and sports development. (NAN)
Edited by Joseph Edeh
