Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, is set to come alive as 297 golfers from Nigeria and neighbouring countries converge on the Ilorin Golf Course for the second edition of the ICMA Pro-Am Open 2025, which tees off today (Thursday).
The four-day championship, featuring both professional and amateur golfers, carries a ₦15 million prize purse and is expected to boost tourism and economic activity in the city.
Among the top contenders for this year’s title are defending champion Okoko Godwin, Epe Francis, Sunday Olapade, and Peter Kakasiaka, alongside a new generation of rising golf talents eager to make an impression.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, the Captain of Ilorin Golf Club, Mr. Jide Allen, described the ICMA Pro-Am Open as one of Nigeria’s most prestigious golf tournaments, noting that it blends sport, tourism, and youth development.
> “This tournament has become a symbol of sporting excellence and community engagement. We’re proud to have Ilorin positioned as a hub for golf in Nigeria,” Allen said.
He explained that professionals and Category One players would begin play on Thursday, while 170 amateur golfers are scheduled to take to the course on Saturday after a welcome cocktail on Friday night.
Allen also commended ICMA Professional Services, the tournament’s sponsor, for its steadfast commitment through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
> “Every Monday, we open the course to young players to promote grassroots participation. This is part of our vision to nurture the next generation of golfers,” he added.
Also speaking, Mallam Farouk Ismail, a former club captain and ICMA representative, announced that players from Cameroon and Ghana would participate, adding an international dimension to the competition.
> “This year’s event will be even more competitive and colourful,” Ismail said. “ICMA’s continued support underscores our belief that sports can drive social and economic development.”
The tournament, sanctioned by the Professional Golfers’ Association of Nigeria (PGAN), builds on the success of its inaugural edition in 2024, which was widely praised for its organisation and impact. Organisers say the 2025 edition will set a new benchmark, further cementing Ilorin’s reputation as a leading golf destination in Nigeria.
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