The city of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital, is set to host the highly anticipated Ibom Open amateur golf tournament, expected to attract over 300 golfers from across Nigeria and other parts of Africa.

Scheduled to tee off on June 5, the two-day event will take place at the prestigious Ibom Golf Course and the newly established ARISE Golf Course. The tournament is organized by the Ibom Golf and Country Club and supported by major sponsors including Ship Africa, Hensek Engineering, Bulletin, and e-Transact, among others.

Chairman of the Planning Committee, Usenobong Akpabio, revealed during a press briefing in Uyo that the response to the tournament has been overwhelming.

“Within 48 hours of opening the registration portal, over 300 golfers had already registered,” he said, describing the turnout as unprecedented.

Akpabio highlighted the tournament’s potential to promote tourism and stimulate economic activity in the state.

“In totality, this is what Akwa Ibom State needs. It encourages tourism, and through golf, we can achieve this,” he said.

He added that the event will create over 300 direct jobs for caddies and other support roles.

“With the addition of ARISE Golf Course to Ibom Golf Course, Akwa Ibom is gradually becoming a golfing destination in West Africa, and Ibom Open has come for that purpose,” he added.

Captain of Ibom Golf Club, Isua Archibong, echoed similar optimism, stating: