Barely 24 hours after the conclusion of the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT), Nigerian and international golfers have returned to the course for the Nigeria Ladies Open 2026 at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja.

Performing the ceremonial tee-off alongside top government officials, representatives of private organisations and sponsors, Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, said the championship would further strengthen relationships among female golfers across the continent.

Eyesan commended the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN) for sustaining the annual competition despite financial constraints.

She also expressed appreciation to the association for putting Nigeria first during the just-concluded All Africa Challenge Trophy, which attracted 20 African countries.

Speaking at the event, LGAN President, Dr Lami Onayi Ahmed, urged the participating golfers to compete in the spirit of sportsmanship and without rancour, describing golf as a peaceful game.

Ahmed said the experience gained from hosting the week-long AACT would help the organisers deliver another memorable championship.

She also appreciated the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, for granting the association access to the facilities at the IBB International Golf and Country Club for both competitions.

A total of 110 amateur female golfers are competing in the 54-hole championship.

At the end of the opening round, Tanzania's Neema Olomi emerged as the early leader with a score of 74, followed by Madina Husseni on 76 and Afi Amezedo on 77.

Hawa Wanyeche returned 79, while Aala Somji and Ayne Magombe both recorded 81. Tracy Humbira finished with 82, while Ehinomhen Igbinadolor and Loveness Mungure posted 84 apiece.

Nigeria's Diana Osmond completed the top 10 after carding 85 in the first round.

The competition continues on Monday, with players expected to face another demanding test as they battle for positions in the second round.