By; Sunny Canto
Excitedly, no fewer than 350 amateur golfers have booked to participate in the 2026 edition of the Ibom Open Golf Tournament, billed from June 4th-7th at the prestigious Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort, Uyo.
According to the Chairman of the Tournament Planning Committee, Hon. Usenobong Akpabio, during a Press briefing yesterday, said "The tournament has surpassed its initial registration target of 300 players within just seven days of opening the registration portal" he told.
Akpabio who expressed satisfaction and overwhelming growth surrounding the reputation of the Ibom Open as one of Nigeria's leading golf tournaments in history.
Adding, "This is the biggest and best golf tournament in the country; which is similar to the previous edition in which we set a target of 300 participants, and within one week, that number was achieved"
The Lawmaker added, in fact, more golfers have shown interest in joining the competition. Of course, we are not just organizing a tournament; but we have created a platform that attracts sponsors and amazing opportunities," Akpabio concluded.
While Captain of Ibom Golf Club, Mr. Isua Archibong applauded the LOC for constant improvement of the tournament and advised indigenous people, residents doing businesses to take advantage of the economic opportunities throughout the event. In Addition, the competition has become a strategic platform for promoting Akwa Ibom State's rich cultural heritage and hospitality to investors and visitors.
"Lets use this golf platform to exhibit and market Akwa Ibom State to the World at large. Also, we are ready to host our visitors, and investors. Golf is one of the vehicles that will help drive the ARISE Agenda of Governor Umo Eno," he added.
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.
Meanwhile, the LOC 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 also, over Twenty-Six 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.
In summary, with a massive record of 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.
