By Sumaila Ogbaje
The GEJ Golf Club set a new benchmark in Nigeria’s sporting calendar, becoming the first to blend cultural heritage with golf in celebration of the nation’s 65th Independence anniversary.
The event, tagged “Swinging in the Depths of Nigeria’s Cultural Heritage”, showcased golfers clad in traditional attires and promoted indigenous cuisines, making the tournament both a sporting and cultural showcase.
GEJ Golf Club is located at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Base, Bill Clinton Drive, Airport and managed by the NAF.
The President, Nigeria Golf Federation (NGF), Otumba Olusegun Runsewe, said the innovation marked a turning point in how golf is perceived and celebrated in Nigeria.
“GEJ Golf Club has made history today as the first club in Nigeria to successfully bring culture into the golfing community.
“This is not just about memory; it is a message. It reminds us to love our country and use golf as a platform to tap into the benefits of our rich traditions,” he said.
Runsewe, who described the initiative as “a brand identity for golfing in Nigeria,” said it underscored the importance of unity, peace, and discipline in national life.
“By aligning this celebration with October 1st, GEJ club is not just marking Independence Day, it is promoting peace, discipline, and a renewed sense of cultural pride,” he said.
Runsewe said that with a population of over 250 million people, Nigeria’s Independence celebrations should be expressed through diverse initiatives, with GEJ Golf Club now securing its place in history.
Also speaking, the Vice President of NGF and Captain of GEJ Golf Club, AVM Bgmibgmitawuza Solomon, said the idea was born from a desire to use sport as a medium for national identity and local content promotion.
According to him, with Nigeria marking 65 years of independence, they felt golf could be a unique way to celebrate.
Solomon explained that more than 80 per cent of the players at the event wore locally produced fabrics.
He added that the post-game luncheon also featured a variety of Nigerian dishes, including amala and tuwo, in line with the government’s local content policy.
“This is our way of aligning with the Nigeria-first agenda.
“I must commend the Chief of the Air Staff, whose support made it possible to host the event here at the Air Force Golf Club.
“The initiative has created a model that can be replicated nationwide to not only promote golf but also preserve and celebrate Nigeria’s cultural heritage,” he said. (NAN)