by Akanimo K.
No fewer than 350 amateur golfers have registered to participate in the 2026 edition of the Ibom Open Golf Tournament, scheduled to hold from June 4 to June 7 at the prestigious Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort, Uyo.
Speaking during a press conference on Tuesday, Chairman of the Tournament Planning Committee, Hon. Usenobong Akpabio, revealed that the competition surpassed its initial registration target of 300 players within just seven days of opening the registration portal.
According to him, the overwhelming response reflects the growing reputation of the Ibom Open as one of Nigeria’s leading golf tournaments.
“This is the best golf tournament in the country. Just like last year, we set a target of 300 participants, and within one week, that number was achieved. In fact, more golfers are still expressing interest in joining the competition. We are not just organizing a tournament; we have created a platform that attracts partnerships and opportunities,” Akpabio stated.
Also speaking, Captain of Ibom Golf Club, Mr. Isua Archibong commended the organizing committee for continuously improving the tournament and urged residents and businesses to take advantage of the economic opportunities associated with the event. He noted that the tournament has become a strategic platform for promoting Akwa Ibom State to visitors and investors alike.
“We are using golf to showcase Akwa Ibom State. We are ready for visitors, and we are ready for investors. Golf is one of the vehicles that will help drive the ARISE Agenda of Governor Umo Eno,” he said.
Archibong further estimated that with many participants expected to spend at least ₦1 million during their stay, the tournament would significantly impact the state’s economy through accommodation, transportation, hospitality, entertainment, and souvenir purchases
In his remarks, Chief Executive Officer of Ship Afrika and lead sponsor of the tournament, Mr. Ubong Ekwere said the company has remained committed to supporting the Ibom Open since 2023 because of its contribution to sports development and tourism promotion in the state.
“We recognize the efforts of the Akwa Ibom State Government in developing tourism and creating opportunities through events such as the Ibom Open. Supporting this tournament aligns with our values at Ship Afrika, and we encourage other private-sector organizations to partner with the vision, especially as plans are underway to introduce a professional category in the coming years,” Ekwere said.
Organizers disclosed that the professional arm of the tournament is expected to commence within the next two years, further enhancing the event’s status on the national golf calendar.
The 2026 Ibom Open will feature competitions in the men’s, ladies’, veterans’, super veterans’, and championship categories.
More than 26 corporate brands have partnered with the tournament, including Uganda Airlines, which will offer free return tickets to any destination on its network for the championship winner, amongst other fabulous prizes.
With record participation and increasing corporate support, the Ibom Open continues to strengthen its position as a major sports tourism event and a catalyst for economic growth in Akwa Ibom State.
