By Victor Okoye
Abuja, April 1, 2026 (NAN) Hon. Dr. Jabiru Salisu Tsauri, the National Coordinator/CEO of African Union Development Agency- New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AUDA-NEPAD), has pledged strong support for the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy.
Tsauri made the remarks during a courtesy visit by Lami Ahmed, the President of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN) and members of her team to his office on Wednesday in Abuja.
He described the event as a milestone for Nigeria’s sports diplomacy and economic growth.
“I am delighted to receive the LGAN delegation. Their vision aligns with national development goals, and we will provide the needed backing to ensure a successful championship,” Tsauri said.
He noted that women’s golf development deserves national attention, adding that passionate athletes and administrators should be supported to elevate Nigeria’s global sporting profile.
Tsauri commended LGAN’s leadership for securing hosting rights, describing it as “credible and laudable,” and reaffirmed his commitment as Patron and Continental Ambassador.
“Nigeria has the capacity, population strength, and hospitality to host over 30 African nations. We will showcase our unity and leadership on the continent,” he said.
Earlier, Dr. Lami Onayi Ahmed, President of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), said the visit was to seek strategic partnership with AUDA-NEPAD Nigeria.
“We are here not just as sports administrators but as patriots committed to national prestige and Africa’s unity through sports,” Ahmed said.
She announced that Nigeria would host the championship from Nov. 1 to Nov. 7, 2026, under the theme “Uniting Africa Through the Greens.”
Ahmed explained that the event would support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative by boosting tourism and the sports economy.
“To host Africa successfully, we need strong institutional backing. AUDA-NEPAD represents the developmental heartbeat of the continent,” she said.
She appealed for AUDA-NEPAD Nigeria’s endorsement as the official institutional anchor for the championship.
Ahmed also formally invited Tsauri to serve as LGAN Patron and Continental Ambassador, citing his leadership and Pan-African influence.
“With your support, we will project Nigeria’s strength, hospitality, and leadership to the world,” she added.
The championship is expected to attract female golfers, officials, and delegates from over 30 African countries, further positioning Nigeria as a hub for continental sporting events.(NAN)
