Kwara set to host major golf championship as 297 players compete for ₦15m prize

Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, is gearing up to host one of Nigeria’s biggest golf events of the year as 297 golfers from within and outside the country converge for the second edition of the ICMA Pro-Am Open 2025, which tees off on Thursday at the Ilorin Golf Course.

The four-day tournament — featuring both professional and amateur golfers — carries a ₦15 million prize purse and is expected to boost the city’s sporting profile and local economy.

Top players, including defending champion Okoko Godwin, Ekpe Francis, Sunday Olopade, and Peter Kakasiaka, are among those confirmed for the championship, alongside several rising talents eager to impress.

Speaking during a press briefing on Monday, the Captain of Ilorin Golf Club, Mr. Jide Allen, described the ICMA Pro-Am as a growing brand that promotes both sport and community development.

“This tournament has become a symbol of sporting excellence and community engagement. We’re proud to have Ilorin serve as a hub for golf in Nigeria,” Allen said.

He explained that professional and Category One players will open play on Thursday, while 170 amateur golfers will 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 continued investment in golf through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programmes.

“Every Monday, we open the course to young players to encourage grassroots participation. This is part of our vision to groom the next generation of golfers,” he added.

Former club captain and ICMA representative, Mallam Farouk Ismail, noted that this year’s edition will feature players from Cameroon and Ghana, adding an international dimension to the event.

“This year’s tournament promises to be more competitive and colourful. ICMA’s commitment to this project reflects our belief that sports can drive social and economic development,” Ismail stated.

Endorsed by the Professional Golfers’ Association of Nigeria (PGAN), the inaugural edition of the ICMA Pro-Am Open held last year was praised for its organisation and impact on the golfing community.

Organisers say this year’s event will raise the standard even higher, further cementing Ilorin’s place on Nigeria’s golfing map.