Over 100 golfers, including top players from Kenya, Ghana, Cameroon, Namibia, Rwanda, and other countries, have converged at the Python Golf Club in Port Harcourt to compete in the Nigeria Professional Golf Tour’s most lucrative event.

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This seven-day tournament boasts an impressive N22 million total prize purse for professional golfers, with the competition commencing on Wednesday.

While the tournament officially started with junior players, caddies will have their chance to compete today. The event is scheduled to run until November 12, 2023.

Keves Global Leasing Limited, a company led by Chief Ikenna Okafor, is the main sponsor of the tournament. Okafor stated that the event is their contribution to the development of golf, a sport he believes plays a crucial role in instilling values in African youth.

“We are committed to promoting the game of Golf. The values of honesty, accountability, and self-discipline that the game promotes are fundamental to the development of a great personality,” Okafor emphasized.

“Our goal is to create a platform to showcase and celebrate the leading professional golfers on the continent, and I must say some of the best are in Nigeria. We hope that this event will become the most significant reward for their talents as well,” Okafor added.

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He acknowledged that junior members and caddies serve as essential pathways for introducing new talent to the sport, stating that their involvement will expand the reach into various demographics, aligning with their strategic objectives.

Defending champion of the event and an Ikoyi-based golfer, Sunday Olapade, has already arrived at the par 72 Python Club. He is prepared to face strong competition on the Tour, with a desire to retain the title.

Leading the Nigeria Tour, Francis Epe, Kamalu Bako from the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Mike Ubi, and Gift Willy from Python Club, all aim to claim the title.

The event features formidable players from across the continent, including Ghana’s Vincent Torgah, Kenya’s Nelson Mudanyi, Rwanda’s Ronald Rugumayo, and Namibia’s Paulino Kasoma.

The tournament will culminate with the closing round of the professionals’ 72-hole contest, followed by the final rounds for amateur players over the weekend. The competition is anticipated to be a thrilling showcase of talent, sportsmanship, and golfing excellence.