Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has pledged his administration’s support for the successful hosting of the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT), as Nigeria prepares to welcome women golfers from across the continent.

Sanwo-Olu gave the assurance on Sunday, October 18, when he received a delegation of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), led by the association’s Patron and Iyalode of Lagos, Chief Bintu-Fatima Tinubu, during a courtesy visit to Lagos House, Marina.

The governor commended LGAN for its efforts to promote women’s participation in sports and strengthen Africa’s international profile. He expressed enthusiasm for the forthcoming championship and assured the delegation of the Lagos State Government’s support.

He also stressed the importance of integrity, ethical conduct and maintaining high standards, urging individuals and organisations to uphold these values in their respective endeavours.

Sanwo-Olu further encouraged people to pursue meaningful opportunities at every stage of life, emphasising that age should not limit personal growth, ambition or achievement.

Speaking during the visit, LGAN President and Chairperson of the AACT 2026 Local Organising Committee, Dr Lami Onayi Ahmed, disclosed that the championship had received endorsements from the National Sports Commission, relevant Senate and House of Representatives committees, and other stakeholders.

Ahmed also revealed that Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, had endorsed the event and agreed to participate in its opening and closing ceremonies.

She described the tournament as an opportunity to enhance Nigeria’s international profile, promote tourism, attract investment and stimulate economic activity.

According to her, the championship will also highlight golf’s contribution to developing discipline, leadership and greater opportunities for women.

The 2026 edition will be the third time Nigeria has hosted the All Africa Challenge Trophy, following the inaugural Nigerian hosting in 1996 at Ikoyi Club 1938 in Lagos and the 2010 edition at the IBB International Golf & Country Club in Abuja.

The continental championship is scheduled to hold from November 2 to 7 at the IBB International Golf & Country Club, Abuja, with approximately 30 African countries expected to participate.

Under the slogan “Uniting Africa Through the Greens,” AACT 2026 aims to bring nations together through women’s golf while creating opportunities for cultural exchange, tourism and broader continental cooperation.

With the championship approaching, the support expressed by the Lagos State Government adds to the momentum behind Nigeria’s preparations to host Africa’s golfing community for a competition expected to extend its impact beyond the course.