Youth Games: Golf Finds Its Swings at Grassroots
Oru Leonard
Golf, once seen as a game reserved for the elite and older generation, is now winning the hearts of young Nigerians. At the ongoing National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State, the sport is taking center stage as the Golf Federation showcases budding talents from 17 states in a vibrant display of grassroots development.
Hosted at the Ibori Golf and Country Club, the competition features boys and girls competing in Matchplay singles, Stroke, Stapleford and Eclectic rounds. Their impressive performances so far have shown that the future of golf in Nigeria is bright.
Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko, praised the youngsters for their passion and commitment, describing their showing as “a promising sign for the future of golf in Nigeria.” He commended the Golf Federation for its grassroots drive.
Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, noted that with the support of the Commission and other stakeholders, golf has the potential to thrive as both a career and a lifestyle choice for Nigerian youth.
Golf Federation President, Otunba Segun Runsewe, applauded the participants and emphasized that breaking stereotypes about the sport being elitist is key to growing wider interest. According to him, events like the Youth Games give golf a broader reach and open opportunities for children from diverse backgrounds.
Technical Director, Mr. Bolaji Olajide, described the outing as a resounding success, adding that Nigeria is only a step away from becoming a strong contender in international golf once the grassroots programme gathers momentum.
(FMYD Press, September 20, 2025)
