The National Sports Commission (NSC) chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, has taken decisive steps to develop golf in Nigeria, engaging with the FCT Golf Association to dispel the long-held belief that the sport is reserved for the elite.
In a meeting with the association’s chairman, Akabom Enebong, both parties agreed on the need for deliberate efforts to promote golf at the grassroots level. Dikko stressed the importance of creating opportunities for underprivileged but talented youths who are often excluded due to the high cost of golf kits.
“We’ve always seen golf as a sport for the rich and privileged, but there are many talented kids from less fortunate backgrounds,” Dikko said. “We must make a conscious effort to harness their potential. These kids may not have access to elite golf clubs, but with increased participation and sponsorship, they can thrive. Golf kits are expensive, but with support, we can remove these barriers.”
Recognizing golf’s Olympic status, Dikko highlighted the importance of starting early to nurture young talents who can represent Nigeria on the global stage. “If we aim to perform well at the Olympics in two or three cycles, we must act now. Nigeria has abundant talent—we just need to create platforms to harness it,” he emphasized.
Echoing Dikko’s sentiments, Enebong outlined plans to make golf more accessible, proposing the establishment of public golf courses in all FCT area councils.
“If approved, this initiative will bring golf to the grassroots and challenge the myth that it’s a sport for only the wealthy,” Enebong said.
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