The city of Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, is gearing up to host one of Nigeria’s biggest golf tournaments of the year — the second edition of the ICMA Pro-Am Open 2025, which tees off on Thursday at the prestigious Ilorin Golf Course.
A total of 297 golfers from across Nigeria and neighbouring countries are expected to participate in the four-day championship, which features both professional and amateur players competing for a ₦15 million prize purse.
The high-profile event is anticipated to bring renewed excitement and economic activity to Ilorin, with some of Nigeria’s finest golfers — including defending champion Okoko Godwin, Ekpe Francis, Sunday Olopade, and Peter Kakasiaka — all confirmed for the tournament.
Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, the Captain of Ilorin Golf Club, Mr. Jide Allen, described the ICMA Pro-Am as a rapidly growing sporting spectacle that has become a major highlight on Nigeria’s golfing calendar.
“This tournament has become a symbol of sporting excellence and community engagement,” Allen said. “We’re proud to have Ilorin as a hub for golf in Nigeria.”
Allen disclosed that professional and Category One players will begin play on Thursday, while 170 amateur golfers will take to the course on Saturday, following a welcome cocktail on Friday night.
He commended ICMA Professional Services, sponsors of the event, for their consistent investment in sports through their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
“Every Monday, we open the course to young players to encourage grassroots participation. This is part of our vision to grow the next generation of golfers,” he added.
Also speaking, Farouk Ismail, a former captain of the Ilorin Golf Club and ICMA representative, revealed that the 2025 edition has drawn participants from Cameroon and Ghana, adding an international dimension to the tournament.
“This year’s tournament promises to be more competitive and colourful,” Ismail said. “ICMA’s commitment to this project reflects our belief that sports can drive social and economic development.”
The Professional Golfers’ Association of Nigeria (PGA) has endorsed the championship, which has gained a reputation for its world-class organisation and hospitality since its inaugural edition last year.
Organisers say this year’s event aims to raise the standard even higher and further cement Ilorin’s position as a leading golf destination in Nigeria.
