Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, is gearing up to host one of Nigeria’s biggest golf tournaments of the year — the second edition of the ICMA Pro-Am Open 2025 — which tees off on Thursday.
A total of 297 golfers from within and outside the country will compete for a ₦15 million prize purse at the Ilorin Golf Course in a four-day event that promises to boost both excitement and economic activity in the state.
Top professionals including defending champion Okoko Godwin, Ekpe Francis, Sunday Olopade, and Peter Kakasiaka, along with several rising talents, are among those confirmed for the championship.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, the Captain of the Ilorin Golf Club, Mr. Jide Allen, described the ICMA Pro-Am as one of the most anticipated golf events in Nigeria, blending sports, tourism, and youth development.
“This tournament has become a symbol of sporting excellence and community engagement. We’re proud to position Ilorin as a hub for golf in Nigeria,” Allen said.
He explained that professional and Category One golfers will begin play on Thursday, while 170 amateur players will take to the course on Saturday, following a welcome cocktail on Friday night.
Allen also commended ICMA Professional Services, the event’s sponsor, for its continued support through various Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
“Every Monday, we open the course to young players to encourage grassroots participation. It’s part of our vision to nurture the next generation of golfers,” he added.
Also speaking, Mallam Farouk Ismail, a former captain of the Ilorin Golf Club and ICMA representative, revealed that this year’s competition has attracted golfers from Cameroon and Ghana, giving the tournament an international touch.
“This year’s edition will be more competitive and colourful. ICMA’s dedication to this project shows our belief that sports can drive both social and economic growth,” Ismail stated.
Endorsed by the Professional Golfers’ Association of Nigeria (PGAN), the first edition of the ICMA Pro-Am Open was widely praised for its excellent organisation and positive impact.
Organisers say this year’s tournament aims to surpass that success and firmly establish Ilorin as a major destination on Nigeria’s golfing map.
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