ABUJA — The League of African Ambassadors (LAA) has launched a continent-wide fundraising golf initiative in Nigeria aimed at strengthening diplomacy, partnerships and resource mobilisation across Africa.
The programme will commence with a two-day tournament at the Ibom Golf and Country Club in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, scheduled for August 29–30, 2026, with arrival and preliminary events on August 28.
President of the League, Ambassador Nwanne Ominyi, said the initiative is part of efforts to advance African unity, economic cooperation and a stronger continental voice in global affairs.
“Our fundamental objective is to harness the collective experience, expertise, networks and institutional memory of African ambassadors in support of African unity, peace and sustainable development,” Ominyi said at a press briefing in Abuja.
The League, launched on October 14, 2025, under the African Union Economic, Social and Cultural Council (AU-ECOSOCC), brings together serving and retired ambassadors to promote diplomacy, mentorship, youth engagement and partnerships across the continent.
Chairman of the Nigerian organising committee, Ambassador Ben Okoyen, said the golf tournament is intended to serve as a platform for engagement among key stakeholders.
“The tournament is designed as a platform where diplomats, government representatives, corporate leaders and development partners can interact, build relationships and support programmes aligned with the League’s objectives,” Okoyen said.
He added, “Golf provides an excellent environment for diplomacy because it creates opportunities for informal interaction, friendship, networking and partnership beyond the formal conference room.”
The Nigerian edition is being coordinated by a 25-member committee comprising diplomats, former public officials and members of the golfing community, under the auspices of Ambassador Lt. Gen. T.Y. Buratai (Rtd), a member of the League’s Board of Trustees for West Africa.
According to the League, the initiative will be replicated in 11 African countries, including Ghana, Ethiopia, Kenya, South Africa and Egypt, as part of efforts to strengthen continental networks and mobilise resources for development-focused programmes.
The event is expected to attract diplomats, senior government officials, corporate executives and golf enthusiasts, with participation limited to about 150 golfers. Prizes will include international return flight tickets.
The League also said Nigeria remains a key partner in its continental vision, citing the country’s longstanding role in African diplomacy and regional affairs.
“Africa’s future requires African leadership, African solidarity and African solutions, supported by constructive partnerships with the wider world,” Ominyi said.
The League called on governments, diplomatic missions, corporate organisations and development partners to support the initiative, noting that partnerships formed through the programme are expected to extend beyond the golf course.
