Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai has promised to make Kaduna the golf capital of Nigeria.
The governor, who was speaking at the closing ceremony of the maiden edition of the KADINVEST Pinnacle Pro-Am Golf Tournament, said with seven golf clubs in Kaduna, the state is in a position to lead others in golf tournaments.
The maiden edition was won by Andrew Oche from IBB Golf Club, at the Kaduna Golf Club on Sunday.
El-Rufai said that the state government in its quest to boost tourism in the state through golf, would support every tournament with equal amount of money provided by the sponsor.
“The Pro-Am tournament recorded the highest number of players in Nigerian history. I want to assure the board of trustees and management that Kaduna state government will work with the golf club to elevate it to the highest standard. As a first step, for this Kadinvest tournament we want it to continue annually.
“With the Governor’s Cup and any other, Kaduna state government would match the purse the sponsors put up, so that we double the purse. We are doing this to encourage the club to have more tournaments and we would ensure that other sponsors join Pinnacle Communications.”
Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Kaduna Golf Club and Emir of Birnin Gwari, Alhaji Jibrin Maigwari urged the professional players to try their efforts outside Nigeria by playing in international tournaments.
“I want to see more Nigerian players play in Africa circuits and the world to make their mark in the world. We would support you to achieve that.”
Captain of the Club, Col. Ibrahim Biu (rtd) expressed appreciation for the sponsors and supporters of the club, while urging for more support from corporate organisations to enable the 97 years old club regain its lost glory.
Prizes and awards were later presented to winners, guests, sponsors, organisers and leadership of the tournament.
