The stage is set for a thrilling display of skill and sportsmanship as Nigeria's finest golfers prepare to compete at the prestigious 64th FirstBank Lagos Open Golf Tournament. Hosted at the iconic Ikoyi Club 1938 Golf Section, the event boasts a significantly enhanced prize purse, making it one of the most lucrative golf competitions in the country.
A Week-Long Golfing Extravaganza
The tournament action kicks off on Monday with a special event dedicated to the caddies, whose role is vital to the sport. The Championship kitty will then follow on Wednesday, setting the stage for the main contests. Thursday is reserved for the Corporate Golf Challenge for Charity, highlighting the event's community spirit. The primary competition, where a new champion will be crowned, begins on Friday and runs through to Sunday.
Record-Breaking Prize Money
In a major move to support and elevate the sport, the tournament's sponsor, FirstBank of Nigeria Limited, has committed a staggering N34.5 million in cash and other prizes. This represents a massive increase from previous years and underscores the bank's dedication to golf development.
During a pre-tournament briefing, the bank's Group Chief Executive Officer, Olusegun Alebiosu, shared the vision behind the increased investment. Represented by the Head of Treasury Sales and Derivatives Marketing, Ayokunle Ojo, Alebiosu stated that the boosted prize fund is specifically designed to elevate the championship's status and foster the growth of professional golf in the region.
"We have raised the pro-am monies from N5 million to N34.5 million," Ojo announced. "The first prize winner will take home N10 million for a single day of play. This is the biggest reward for the game of golf in Nigeria, thereby elevating the championship and enhancing the development of professional golf within the region."
More Than Just a Competition
Beyond the fierce competition for the title, the bank reaffirmed its commitment to using the platform for broader purposes. Ojo emphasized that the objective is not only to host a competitive event but also to celebrate character, competence, and community.
Echoing this sentiment, the Acting Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Olayinka Ijabiyi, described the championship as a powerful narrative. She called it a story of rededication, a tradition that inspires, and a game that mirrors life itself through its demands for focus, dedication, and true sportsmanship.
With the record prize money and a week full of activities, the 64th FirstBank Lagos Open is poised to be a landmark event in Nigeria's sporting calendar.
