The Nigerian Navy has called for the inclusion of the annual Eastern Naval Command (ENC) Golf Tournament in the tourism calendar of Cross River State.

The call was made by a former Chief of Naval Staff, Dele Ezeoba, at the 2026 edition of the tournament held at the Calabar Golf Course on Sunday.

Mr Ezeoba commended the organisers for hosting a tournament that attracted golfers from across the country, noting that such an event had the potential to boost tourism and revenue generation in the state.

He said the Cross River State Government only needed to partner with the organisers to sustain and expand the event in subsequent editions.

He stated, “I have had a wonderful experience of golf and I must say that it is something that should be encouraged.”

He noted that participants aged 81 and above completed nine holes during the tournament, demonstrating that golf remained a viable form of exercise even in old age.

According to him, the tournament forms part of the annual activities of flag officers and their regimental engagements.

“There is need for a more sustainable funding structure beyond the resources of the Navy and the flag officers.

“My take is that the state government should come in and add value to the development of this course as a source of tourism potential for the state,” he said.

Also speaking, the Flag Officer Commanding, ENC, Chiedozie Okehie, said the 2026 edition attracted 152 golfers from across Nigeria to Calabar.

Mr Okehie said that beyond its fitness value, the annual tournament also provided opportunities for networking.

He added that the golf course spans about 10 kilometres, underscoring its capacity to host major competitions.

In his remarks, the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Peter Odey, urged participants to promote the state as an investment destination, particularly in tourism and agriculture.

Mr Odey noted, “To be honest, I didn’t know it was going to be this well-organised. I am impressed with what I have seen here; I’m impressed with the way they are taking it seriously.

“It’s an encouragement for some of us who’ve just started playing golf to ensure that we step up our game.”

Similarly, the traditional ruler of Orlu in Imo State, Patrick Acholonu, urged the state government to leverage the tournament to promote and boost its tourism sector.

An Assistant Comptroller of Customs in Kaduna State, Tuesday Achukwu, emerged overall winner with 80 gross, 12 under par, handicap 20, and a return of 60 net.

In his remarks, Mr Achukwu attributed his victory to hard work and preparation.

He said, “I arrived in Calabar early and practised at the course. I was surprised to discover that it is the biggest course I have ever played, and it took me some time to get acquainted with it. Perseverance, resilience and commitment paved the way for my victory.”

 (NAN)