By Victor Okoye
Abuja, Jan. 27, 2026 (NAN) The Goodluck Ebele Jonathan (GEJ) Golf Club has inducted 114 new members during a colourful induction kitty held over the weekend in Abuja.
The event combined competition with orientation, welcoming new members and showcasing the club’s growing influence in Nigeria’s golfing and social circles.
Captain of the club, Air Vice Marshal B.D. Solomon, said the induction aimed at integrating new members into GEJ’s culture of excellence.
“Golf is a universal game that unites people globally. Once you share a handicap, you become family.”
Solomon, who is also the Vice President of the Nigeria Golf Federation (NGF), said the ceremony symbolised acceptance into a golfing family.
“This induction makes members feel a sense of belonging and responsibility to contribute to the club’s growth.”
He said GEJ Golf Club prioritised member satisfaction over competition with other clubs.
“We are not competing with any club. Our goal is to satisfy our members and ensure they enjoy golf here.”
Solomon described GEJ as a platform for mentorship, discipline and social cohesion.
“Golf here is beyond sport. We teach ethics, etiquette and equality. Once on the tee-box, everyone is equal,” he said.
Sarah Fabuyi, the Acting Lady Captain and member of the Membership Committee, described the induction process as rigorous.
“We admit only candidates who meet our standards of conduct, discipline and commitment to society.”
She described the induction as a milestone and welcomed the new members.
“Golf is a leveller. We emphasise ethics, sportsmanship and peaceful coexistence among members,” she said.
Sarah said rising attendance at GEJ events reflected the club’s growing profile.
“We started humbly, but elite players now flock here. GEJ is fast becoming the place to be.”
The NGF president, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, said the induction promoted unity across divides.
“Golf is a family sport that unites people irrespective of religion, tribe or profession.”
Runsewe said government support had improved Nigeria’s golf development.
“We now have over 18 young Nigerians competing internationally due to increased support.”
He identified funding as a major challenge but expressed optimism.
“We are introducing the Nigeria Open, Nigeria Classic and journalist training in golf reporting,” he said.
Superintendent Route Commander S. Mohammed of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), described the induction as enlightening and well organised.
“This is my first official exposure to a golf induction, and I am impressed by the structure, activities and discipline displayed.”
He said the induction highlighted the strengths and growing relevance of golf in Nigeria.
According to him:“The process reflects the challenges, values and opportunities within Nigerian golf.”
Mohammed noted that the induction of 114 members showed the sport’s expanding appeal.
“The number inducted today shows that the gospel of golf is gaining ground in Nigeria.
“It shows that golf is gaining ground and must be guided by strong values,” he said.
Former Dolphin Golf Club captain, RADM Jato Kagoma Luka (Rtd), described the induction as historic.
“In over 20 years of golf, I have never witnessed such a formal and celebratory induction,” he said.
He also dismissed claims that golf was only for the rich.
“Golf is not for the rich alone. Commitment matters more than money. It promotes health and longevity.
“Golf keeps you active. I spend less time in hospitals because of the game,” he said.
He urged governments to invest in grassroots golf development.
“Government should partner with private clubs and introduce golf from primary school level.”
He said Nigeria lacked PGA players but sponsors were available.
“Many well-meaning Nigerians are ready to sponsor talented young golfers,” he said.
In the day’s main competition, inductee Nike Festus emerged winner of the induction kitty.
Festus played off handicap 21, returning a gross score of 81 and net score of 60.
NAN also reports that activities included oath-taking, induction packages, clubhouse tours, cocktails and a putting competition.(NAN)
