The board chairman of the National Credit Guarantee Company, Yakubu Dogara, has endorsed the All Africa Challenge Trophy 2026 as a platform for showcasing Nigeria through women’s golf.

Mr Dogara gave the endorsement while receiving a delegation from the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria, organisers of the championship, who sought a strategic partnership with NCGC ahead of the continental event.

The championship, sanctioned by the Royal and Ancient, is scheduled for November 2 to November 7 at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja.

The R&A is the global governing body for golf (outside of the U.S. and Mexico) and co-manages the Rules of Golf with the USGA.

They sanction premier championships (like The Open), maintain the rules of handicapping, and oversee the World Amateur Golf Ranking.

The event is expected to attract participants and officials from more than 30 African countries.

It will also bring together government delegations, sports administrators, investors, and international media representatives.

A key feature of the championship is the Sport-to-Business Pavilion, designed to promote trade, investment and development partnerships across Africa.

Speaking during the visit, Mr Dogara described the championship as a platform capable of projecting Nigeria in a positive light across the continent.

“Sports remain one of the strongest instruments for promoting unity, diplomacy and economic opportunities.

“The decision to combine golf with cultural, business and investment conversations makes this championship unique and impactful. Nigeria must continue to support initiatives that empower women and create opportunities for meaningful continental engagement,” he said.

Mr Dogara said women’s sports deserved greater institutional support because of their role in inspiring future generations. He pledged to support efforts to ensure the championship achieved its objectives.

The LGAN president, Lami Ahmed, said the event would showcase Nigeria’s leadership in sports development. Ms Ahmed, who also chairs the local organising committee, said the championship was more than a sporting competition.

“AACT 2026 presents Nigeria with an opportunity to host Africa and demonstrate excellence in sports administration and hospitality,” she said.

She said the S2B Pavilion would facilitate engagements between Nigerian institutions and delegates from participating countries.

“The pavilion is designed to create lasting business relationships and open new channels for investment and development cooperation,” she added.

According to her, the championship will provide visibility for organisations seeking to expand their reach across Africa.

She appealed for support from public and private institutions to ensure a successful championship.

“Every major sporting event requires strong partnerships, and we are confident Nigerians will rally behind this continental project,” she said.

The AACT is regarded as Africa’s flagship women’s amateur golf championship and is held biennially among member nations.

(NAN)