By Victor Okoye
The Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN) and the Nigeria Institute of Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to support preparations for the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT).
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the AACT is Africa’s premier women’s golf championship.
The MoU was signed on Thursday in Abuja by the Director-General of NILDS, Prof. Abubakar Suliaman, and the President of LGAN, Dr Lami Ahmed.
The signing took place during a visit by Ahmed and members of her delegation to the institute.
Speaking at the ceremony, Suliaman reaffirmed NILDS’ commitment to the partnership, describing it as beneficial to Nigeria and the sports sector.
“This collaboration demonstrates our commitment to national development through sports and international engagement,” he said.
According to him, sports remain a veritable tool for promoting national unity, economic growth, tourism and gender inclusion.
“Sports bring nations together and create opportunities beyond competition.
“We are delighted to support this project and ensure its success,” Suliaman said.
He added that the initiative would strengthen sports diplomacy and showcase Nigeria’s capacity to host major continental sporting events.
Suliaman noted that the partnership reflected a shared commitment to advancing sports diplomacy, continental cooperation and inclusive development through golf and networking initiatives.
In her remarks, Ahmed described the AACT as one of Africa’s foremost women’s golf championships and a strategic platform for promoting women’s participation in the sport across the continent.
“This partnership reflects a shared vision of using sports as a vehicle for empowerment, networking and sustainable development,” she said.
Ahmed commended NILDS for supporting initiatives aimed at creating an enabling environment for sports development and business collaboration.
She said the 2026 edition of the championship would host delegations from more than 30 African countries, providing opportunities for stronger Pan-African relations and increased economic cooperation.
According to her, a major feature of the championship is the Sports-to-Business Investment Pavilion, themed “Africa Trades in Abuja”.
“The pavilion will connect sports with enterprise and investment opportunities, creating value for participants and stakeholders,” Ahmed said.
She added that the initiative would boost business participation and enhance Nigeria’s profile as a destination for investment and international partnerships. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
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Edited by Emmanuel Afonne
