The organizers of the Elizabeth Wuraola Ojo Toyota Golf Tournament have revealed ambitious expansion plans that will transform the event into a major continental competition featuring top golfers from across Africa.
Bigger and Better Tournament Promised
During the gala night concluding this year's edition, Michael Ade-Ojo, Chairman and founder of Smokin Hills Golf Resort, assured participants that the next tournament would deliver an unforgettable experience for all golfers. The avid golf enthusiast confirmed that preparations are already underway to enhance the excitement of the fiesta before the next edition.
"I want to thank everyone that has come here to honour this year's tournament and by the special grace of God, golfers coming here next year will marvel at the lasting experience they will get," Ade-Ojo declared enthusiastically.
Return After Five-Year Break
Kunle Ade-Ojo, Managing Director of Toyota Nigeria Limited (TNL), expressed his satisfaction with the successful revival of the competition following a five-year hiatus. He noted his particular pleasure in seeing the golf course's fairway restored to excellent condition and the green areas looking delightful.
"I am very happy that we are here and to also continue with the tournament again in memory of my late mother, Elizabeth Wuraola Ojo," he stated emotionally. "We have started this year and God willing, there won't be any global disaster and so far as we're alive and in good health and the country is economically sound and everything is okay, we are also thinking of how we can make it better next year."
Continental Ambitions and Infrastructure Development
Kunle Ade-Ojo disclosed significant infrastructure plans that will support the tournament's growth into an international event. The organizers are planning to construct a five-star hotel and resort within the Smokin Hills Golf Resort to accommodate international players.
"Making this tournament an international event is one of the things that I and the chairman of TNL and the Smokin Hills have spoken about," he revealed. "For us to bring in international players, we need accommodation inside the golf resort because that is very key."
The timeline for this development is ambitious, with expectations that hotel accommodations will be ready within the next two years if not by next year. This infrastructure improvement will allow players to stay on-site during tournaments rather than commuting from external locations.
Kunle emphasized that once accommodation issues are resolved and necessary criteria met, the organizers will begin inviting foreign golfers, fundamentally transforming the nature of the competition from its current format.
