Golf is a key driver of tourism in Akwa Ibom — Usenobong Akpabio

By Emmanuel Samson

Chairman of the 2025 Planning Committee for the Ibom Open Tournament, Rt. Hon. Barr. Usenobong Akpabio, has emphasised that tourism is a crucial driver of development in Akwa Ibom and, by extension, Nigeria.

Speaking during a press conference held at the Ibom Golf and Country Club on Friday, May 23, 2025, Akpabio announced that the tournament is scheduled to begin from 5th to 8th June, 2025, at the Ibom Hotels and Golf Resort. He highlighted that golf tourism not only generates significant revenue but also bolsters the local economy.

Akpabio elaborated that the Ibom tournament will be a two-day event designed to position Akwa Ibom as a premier golf destination in Africa, complemented by the addition of the Brooks Golf Course to enhance the golfing experience.

According to the event schedule shared by the golf chairman, the “Ibom Open” will kick off on June 5th, followed by the Arise Challenge on the 6th, with the first day of the tournament on the 7th and concluding with the final day and prize presentation on the 8th. A cocktail event is also planned for Friday.

“In summary, this is what Akwa Ibom State needs. It promotes tourism, and through golf, we can achieve this. This is the only golf resort in West Africa. Since January, the number of people who have come to the course to play golf has been significant,” Usenobong added.

Elaborating on the event, the Chairman of the Planning Committee noted that the Arise Golf Course serves as a valuable addition to the Ibom Open Tournament, highlighting that approximately 150 individuals will be employed on the opening day, with another 150 hired the following day.

Mr. Isua Archibong, the Captain of Ibom Golf Club and one of the speakers at the conference, emphasised that the economic status of the state will improve, as tourism in developed regions has become a key driver of the economy.

He added that the influx of distinguished visitors to the tournament will contribute significantly to the tourism sector, and expressed believe that a similar model can be successfully implemented in Akwa Ibom State.

Speaking on behalf of Ibom Air, Aniekan Essienete expressed pride in their ongoing partnership with the Ibom Golf Course. “We will facilitate access for the approximately 300 expected guests, and we are pleased to provide transportation for them both to and from the event.”

She emphasised that Ibom Air’s sponsorship goes beyond financial support, adding that it represents a strategic investment for the company. She noted that winners will receive premium return tickets.

Mr. Iniobong Akai, representing Ship Afrika and one of the sponsors, highlighted the importance of collaboration. He stated that golf plays a crucial role in driving tourism development.

In his remarks, Comrade Amos Etuk, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists Akwa Ibom State Council, assured that the state is safe and open for genuine business opportunities, boasting rich cultural and tourism potential.

Etuk expressed commitment to ensuring that the media provides the event with the extensive publicity it deserves.