Ado-Ekiti witnessed a historic gathering as over 280 golfers from across Nigeria converged for the 2025 Ekiti Golf Club Captain’s Inaugural Tournament. Held on March 1-2, 2025, the two-day event marked a significant milestone for golf in the state, celebrating the induction of Tolu Falayi as the club’s new captain and showcasing MTN Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to sports development.
The tournament, which featured competitive categories for Gents (18-59 years) and Veterans (60 and above), not only provided a platform for spirited competition but also fostered business networking and tourism opportunities. Vice-Captain Olubunmi Albert emphasized the event’s role in positioning Ekiti as a premier golfing destination in Nigeria. “This tournament is more than just a competition; it’s an opportunity to showcase Ekiti’s potential as a hub for golf enthusiasts,” Albert remarked.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji, represented by Chief of Staff Niyi Adebayo, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting golf, highlighting its dual benefits for health and economic growth. “We want more of our people to embrace golf, not only for its health advantages but also for the social and economic opportunities it brings,” Adebayo stated. He added that the state would continue to invest in sports infrastructure to attract more events and visitors.
MTN Nigeria’s sponsorship of the tournament reflects its ongoing efforts to promote sports development nationwide. The telecom giant’s involvement underscores the critical role of private-sector partnerships in advancing grassroots sports engagement and infrastructure. By supporting events like this, MTN Nigeria is helping to elevate the profile of golf in Ekiti and beyond.
The tournament concluded with awards presented across multiple categories, including Best Gross, Overall Net Winner, and special recognitions for guests and club members. The success of this inaugural event sets a positive tone for Captain Tolu Falayi’s two-year tenure, with expectations high for continued growth and innovation in the club’s activities.
Beyond the greens, the tournament delivered significant economic benefits to the local community. The influx of visitors from across Nigeria boosted patronage for local businesses, showcasing the broader impact of sports events on regional development. As Ekiti continues to enhance its golfing facilities, the state is well-positioned to attract larger national and international tournaments, further cementing its reputation as a golfing destination.
The event also emphasized the social and communal aspects of sports, fostering camaraderie among participants. Golfers praised the warm and inclusive atmosphere, which brought together players of diverse backgrounds and skill levels. Under Captain Falayi’s leadership, the Ekiti Golf Club aims to build on this momentum by hosting more events that encourage participation from both seasoned players and newcomers.
With MTN Nigeria’s continued support and the state government’s commitment, the Ekiti Golf Club is poised to play a pivotal role in Nigeria’s sports landscape. This inaugural tournament not only marks a new chapter for golf in Ekiti but also signals the state’s potential to become a leading destination for sports tourism and community engagement.