Stakeholders in the golf community have commended Nigeria Golf Federation (NGF) President, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, for driving a fresh era of innovation that is reshaping the sport’s profile across Africa.
Several golf professionals and enthusiasts said Runsewe’s leadership and strategic investments have strengthened Nigeria’s standing as a continental centre for golf development, particularly with the establishment of the Golf and Health Signature in Abuja, West Africa’s only indoor digital golf facility.
They described the Abuja-based centre as a transformative project that integrates modern technology, wellness, professional training and youth development within a single ecosystem.
South Africa’s leading golf instructor, Mpoh Kelosiwaag, praised Runsewe’s vision after touring the state-of-the-art facility, describing him as an exceptional asset to African golf.
“The standard of this facility competes with the best globally. Outside South Africa, no other African country currently offers this level of digital golf infrastructure,” Kelosiwaag said.
Kelosiwaag, who is also affiliated with the Botswana Professional Golf Association, noted that the centre represents Nigeria’s most significant advancement in golf since the overseas training of local professionals in the 1970s.
“I recall hearing this vision 16 years ago and doubting it. Seeing it materialise today is humbling. Every promise was fulfilled,” he said.
He added that the facility exposes Nigerian golfers to advanced electronic training systems, accelerating their readiness for international competitions.
“With this technology and Nigeria’s natural talent, I foresee Nigerian golfers competing consistently on the global stage within the next five years,” he said.
Kelosiwaag also urged authorities to broaden sports investment beyond football, noting that golf offers strong medal prospects at major international events.
“Golf is a sport where one athlete can deliver immense national glory. It deserves deliberate attention,” he added.
Members of the African Golf Network echoed similar views on Nigeria’s growing influence in the sport.
Philip Bobar said the Abuja centre has repositioned Nigeria as Africa’s emerging destination for elite golf training.
“This facility changes global perception. Africa is now looking to Nigeria for innovation and high-level preparation,” Bobar said.
Tijanni Aliyu noted that Runsewe’s strategy combined long-term vision with sustainability.
“He didn’t just create infrastructure; he developed a system that nurtures youth, supports professionals and attracts international partnerships,” Aliyu said.
Ashante Biate described the project as a landmark initiative capable of transforming golf development across the continent.
“Nigeria is no longer following trends; it is setting them,” Biate said.
Speaking on the federation’s plans, NGF Director of Marketing and Sponsorship, Mrs Oyinade Nathan-Marsh, said the facility had enhanced investor confidence and opened doors to major corporate partnerships.
“We are currently engaging more than 10 high-profile companies as part of efforts to expand golf development nationwide,” she said.
Nathan-Marsh added that the structured approach adopted by the federation had made the sport more attractive to long-term investors.
In his remarks, Runsewe described the Golf and Health Signature as a symbol of Africa’s capacity for excellence in sports innovation.
“The project was driven by necessity, vision and a firm belief that Nigeria can lead golf development on the continent,” he said.
He explained that the idea evolved from consultations following the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, adding that former President Goodluck Jonathan and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration played key roles in supporting the vision.
According to him, international compliance standards, insurance coverage and strategic partnerships were secured before the facility was launched.
“Today, golfers from across West Africa and beyond train here regularly because of our digital studio, gymnasium and medical support services,” he said.
Runsewe also noted that the centre had removed financial barriers for young golfers by providing full access to equipment and training resources.
“No child is required to purchase golf clubs here. Everything is provided, which is unprecedented in Nigeria,” he said.
He added that the federation had sponsored young golfers to tournaments across Africa to improve exposure and competitiveness.
Runsewe further disclosed plans to introduce the Tomorrow Golf League (TGL) concept to Africa, with Nigeria positioned to lead the initiative.
“TGL will change how golf is played and viewed. It brings the sport into compact arenas, optimises space and expands audience reach,” he said.
The NGF president, who also publishes Nigeria Golf Network magazine, said discussions were ongoing with partners in the United States to bring the project to fruition.
“Nigeria will pioneer the TGL concept in Africa, and it will redefine the future of the sport on the continent,” he said.
He commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for his support and urged state governments to replicate similar initiatives.
Runsewe expressed optimism that sustained investment and innovation would position Nigeria as a dominant force in African golf in the years ahead.