The inaugural edition of the Nigeria Maritime Golf Challenge will tee off on Thursday at the renowned Ikoyi Club 1938 Golf Course.
Organised in honour of World Maritime Day, the competition will bring together 81 golfers from different parts of the country. The event is expected to attract attention not only because of the sporting excitement it promises but also because of the symbolic link between golf and the maritime industry, with both fields requiring discipline, precision, and strategy.
Speaking ahead of the event, Mr. Lanre Bayewu, Chief Executive Officer of QUBES LLC, explained that the tournament was conceived to mark World Maritime Day (September 25), celebrated this year under the theme “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity.” He noted that the initiative seeks to highlight Nigeria’s maritime sector through the platform of sport. According to him, creating such a connection between golf and maritime development will serve as a reminder that industries can come together in creative ways to promote awareness and growth.
The one-day challenge will feature seven categories of play, with trophies on offer for winners. Cash rewards will also be presented in selected divisions. These prizes are expected to motivate players across all skill levels and ensure that the tournament is not only competitive but also rewarding for participants who put in their best effort.
According to Bayewu, the competition is designed to engage golfers of varying abilities, opening the door for wide participation from maritime industry stakeholders as well as golf enthusiasts outside the sector. He further described the event as part of a larger effort to spotlight Nigeria’s maritime industry both locally and internationally, stressing that it creates opportunities for networking and strengthening ties within the maritime community. He added that the game of golf, being both professional and social, provides an excellent environment for building long-term partnerships.
Top officials from leading maritime organisations, including representatives of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, are also expected to grace the occasion. Their presence will further underline the importance of the challenge, reinforcing the message that maritime growth is not just about policies and infrastructure but also about fostering relationships, celebrating achievements, and showcasing the industry on diverse platforms.
