Ilorin Set to Host 297 Golfers for ₦15m ICMA Pro-Am Open 2025

Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, is gearing up to host one of Nigeria’s most prestigious golf tournaments as 297 golfers from across the country and beyond converge for the second edition of the ICMA Pro-Am Open 2025, teeing off on Thursday at the Ilorin Golf Course.

The four-day championship, featuring both professionals and amateurs, offers a total prize purse of ₦15 million and is expected to bring excitement and economic benefits to the city. Defending champion Okoko Godwin, along with top contenders Ekpe Francis, Sunday Olopade, and Peter Kakasiaka, are among the big names confirmed for the event, alongside several rising stars.

Speaking during a press briefing on Monday, Mr. Jide Allen, Captain of the Ilorin Golf Club, described the ICMA Pro-Am as one of Nigeria’s most anticipated golf events, promoting sports, tourism, and youth development. “This tournament has become a hallmark of excellence and community engagement. We’re proud to see Ilorin emerge as a hub for golf in Nigeria,” he stated.

Allen revealed that professionals and Category One players would commence play on Thursday, while 170 amateur golfers would join the competition on Saturday, following a welcome cocktail scheduled for Friday evening. He commended ICMA Professional Services, the tournament sponsor, for its continued support and youth development initiatives, noting that the club opens the course every Monday for young golfers to nurture new talent.

Former club captain and ICMA representative, Farouk Ismail, added that players from Cameroon and Ghana would participate this year, giving the event an international edge. “This year’s edition will be even more competitive and colourful. ICMA’s dedication underscores our belief that sports can drive both social and economic progress,” Ismail said.

Endorsed by the Professional Golfers’ Association of Nigeria (PGAN), the ICMA Pro-Am Open made a strong debut last year, earning praise for its excellent organisation. Organisers promise that the 2025 edition will surpass expectations, firmly establishing Ilorin as a key destination on Nigeria’s golfing calendar.