Isaiah Ebhodaghe Okonofua, a handicap 9 amateur golfer, celebrated a major victory after winning the 2024 IBB International Golf and Country Club Independence Golf Tournament in Abuja. The 2022 CBN Governor’s Golf Cup Champion played an impressive gross of 75 with a nett of 66, overcoming strong competition to claim the prestigious trophy.

Reacting to his unexpected triumph, Okonofua expressed his gratitude and excitement.

“I’m humbled and honored to emerge as the overall winner. I was nervous at the start because I was paired with two highly skilled golfers. I realized I had to focus on my own game rather than comparing myself to others. Once I settled my nerves, my performance steadily improved, leading me to achieve my best game at the IBB Golf Club,” he said.

The week-long tournament, held to commemorate Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary, attracted top golfers from across the country. Okonofua also proudly represented Nigeria in the singles and doubles matchplay, where the country triumphed over Ghana to become champions.

In other notable results, P. Uzezi, playing with a handicap of 10, recorded a gross score of 80 to win the best gross title after defeating E. Edoka on countback. Godwin Okoko claimed the top prize in the professional male category, while Rachael Danjuma emerged as the top female professional.

S. I. Adebayo emerged victorious in the Division 1 men’s category for handicap 0 to 10, with a gross score of 83 and a net score of 73. Former Lady Captain Grace Ihonvbere took home the top prize in the Lady category.

In the auxiliary competitions, Grace Agbo won the longest drive in the ladies’ category with a distance of 228 meters, while Francis Amuzu triumphed in the men’s category with a drive of 296 meters. Osaro Amadin and Silas Ahiaba both secured wins for nearest to the pin in their respective categories, each hitting within 2.0 feet of the target.

Host captain Ibrahim Babayo commended all who contributed to the success of the event, noting that the 2024 tournament would be remembered as one of the best-attended and most well-organized events in the club’s history.

“I want to thank everyone who supported this celebration, especially our generous sponsors, even in these challenging times. Special thanks also go to the Vice Captain and Organizing Committee Chairman, Dr. James Agbonhese, and all the members of the Organizing Committee for their excellent work. The course superintendent and his team deserve high praise for maintaining the course in such great condition,” Babayo stated.

Dr. Agbonhese, in his own remarks, highlighted the growing influence of golf as a tool for international relations, emphasizing that Nigeria must not be left behind. He also thanked sponsors, partners, and participants for making the event a memorable experience.

The day’s festivities concluded with a presentation of trophies and prizes to the winners, followed by a celebratory dinner for all participants and guests.