By outdoor-nature-child.com **Isaiah Okonofua Claims Victory at Nigeria@64 Independence Golf Tournament**
Olawale Ajimotokan, Abuja
At the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja, Isaiah Okonofua conquered his nerves to emerge as the overall champion of the Nigeria@64 Independence Golf Tournament. Competing against 400 players on the challenging par-72 course, this 9-handicap golfer finished with an impressive net score of 66.
“I was really nervous at the start since I was paired with two professional golfers,” Okonofua admitted. “My game began a bit shaky, but I quickly reminded myself not to compare my performance to theirs. Once I did that, I began to improve with each hole and ultimately played my best golf ever at IBBIGCC.”
Okonofua was thrilled not only by his victory but also by his gross score of 75, which qualified him to represent Nigeria in both singles and doubles match play—where Nigeria secured a win against Ghana.
In the Men’s Division 1 (handicap 0-10), Sola Adebayo took the title with a net score of 73. Grace Ihonvbere triumphed in the Ladies’ Division 1 category, also scoring a net 73 with a handicap of 16. Another competitor, P. Uzezi, managed an 80, edging out Mohammed Suleiman on countback to claim the men’s Division 1 prize.
Among the professionals, Godwin Okoko led the pack, finishing 4 under par with a score of 68, while Rachael Danjuma captured the best gross prize for the women’s division with a score of 80.
IBB Golf Club Captain Ibrahim Babayo noted that this year’s tournament was one of the most well-attended in the club’s history. Dr. James Agbonhese, the organizing committee chairman and club vice captain, expressed appreciation to the guests and golf enthusiasts for their participation, emphasizing how the tournament united golfers of all backgrounds, ages, and skill levels.
Former IBB Club Captain Joe-Kyari Gadzama (SAN) highlighted the importance of the Nigeria@64 Independence Golf Tournament as a meaningful celebration of the nation. “We’ve faced many challenges as a people and a country, but we have so much to celebrate. With rich human and natural resources, strategic geographical advantages, and favorable weather, we have everything needed to elevate this nation. Hosting this tournament this morning is one way to honor our great country,” Gadzama concluded.