By Victor Okoye
Abuja, Oct. 3, 2025 (NAN) Veteran golfer Kwadiri Kwaga Yusuf has emerged champion of the 2025 TYB-IGRCC Independence Golf Tournament, held to commemorate Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary.i
The week-long event took place at the Tukur Yusuf Buratai International Golf Resort and Country Club (TYB-IGRCC), Abuja.The tournament honoured Nigeria’s history while celebrating serving and retired personnel of the Nigerian Army.
Yusuf, a former Managing Director of the Nigerian Agricultural Insurance Corporation (NAIC), topped a field of over 400 golfers to clinch the overall net prize.
He played off a handicap of 16, returning a gross score of 80 and net 67.Speaking after his win, Yusuf said perseverance and determination saw him through.
“I wasn’t scheduled for the regular session. I registered as a veteran but was drawn into the regular group. I accepted the challenge and gave it my best,” he said.
“It was a tough 5-hour round. I’m glad I stayed the course, and I thank my playing partners for their encouragement.”
—Intense competition across categories
In the men’s (21–28) handicap group, DD Dilli emerged as net winner after playing off handicap 22 and returning 89 gross and 67 net.
TYB-IGRCC Captain, Maj.-Gen. S.S. Jiya claimed the gross title after playing off handicap 21 with 90 gross and 69 net.Dalhat Ladan (net winner), and Usman Danladi (gross winner) competed in the (13–20) category, with strong showings across the board.
In the lower handicap brackets, Rueben Eguche (net winner) and Gabriel Godwin (gross winner) won in the (6–12) division, while Babajide Ashebu (net winner) and Timothy Mike (gross winner) topped the (0-5) division.
In the guest category, Paul Odoh Jr. won the net prize, while Effiong Okon returned the best gross score.
—Ladies, veterans, and super veterans impress
In the ladies’ events, Faridah Wada emerged as the best net winner in the (0–18) category after playing off handicap 11 with 82 gross and 71 net, while Longdi Paul Pwaspo returned 80 gross to win the best overall gross title.
Tessy Johnson (best net) and Sarah Nkwariża (best gross) stood out in the (19–36) category, Justina Gideon won the gross title in the guests category, while Jennifer Shaapera took the net award.
Veterans also made their mark as Mike Ekoja won the veteran net prize, while Ahmed Oseni and M. Richard Obioha excelled in their categories.
In the Super Veteran category, Dibu Ojerinde and Sunday Ehindero showed consistency and resilience to emerge top performers.
—DSS DG hails tournament, calls for unity
Special Guest of Honour, Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr Tosin Adeola Ajayi, who earlier led other dignitaries to perform the ceremonial tee-off, praised the tournament’s impact.
He thanked the Chief of Army Staff for the invitation and commended the spirit of unity fostered by the event.
“As we mark 65 years of nationhood, events like this remind us of our unity and shared purpose,” he said.
“Let us always focus on what unites us as a people.”
He reaffirmed the DSS’s partnership with the Nigerian Army in securing the country.
“That synergy spans decades. We’ll continue working together until we achieve a secure and prosperous Nigeria.”
Ajayi also commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting security agencies.
“I congratulate all Nigerians on the 65th Independence celebration. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
—-LOC Chairman speaks
Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Dr James Eromosele Agbonhese, said the tournament marked a milestone for golf and national unity.
“This is a significant moment, not just for TYB Golf Club but for the entire Nigerian golfing community,” he said.
“This maiden Independence Cup is a celebration of our shared heritage and the unifying power of sport.
”He likened golf to the journey of nation-building.
“Golf teaches patience, strategy, and adaptability—qualities that resonate with our national spirit.”
Agbonhese thanked the military command and club leadership for entrusting him with the role of LOC Chairman.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity. The dedication of the committee members made this tournament a success.”
He also acknowledged sponsors, partners, and participants.
“Your support and participation have brought this vision to life. To the golfers—this day was for you. You played with integrity and joy.
”He called for the event to serve as a symbol of collective aspiration.
“The Independence Cup is more than a competition. It represents focus, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence.”
“Let this be not only a celebration of our independence but also of our commitment to building a better future—together.”
—Dignitaries attend
NAN reports that guests at the event included former Kogi Governor, Capt. Idris Wada and Dr Lami Ahmed, First Vice President of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria.
Also, in attendance were captains of industry, serving and retired generals, and members of the diplomatic corps.(NAN)
Being a Master of Ceremonies is quite a thing, but it becomes seamless when you do it with all your heart for our dear country Nigeria🇳🇬@65* – Liz- Ulumaranma (Star Girl)
