Buhari to tee-off IBB Golf Club’s Independence Cup

President Muhammadu Buhari will tee-off the 2019 Independence Cup Golf Tournament on Saturday in Abuja, organisers have said, DAILY TRUST reported.

Chairman of the tournament’s Planning Committee, Emmanuel Anosike, told newsmen at a press conference on Wednesday at the IBB International Golf and Country Club that the committee had been assured of President Buhari’s presence at the opening ceremony.

He said members of Buhari’s cabinet and several state governors will also grace the tee-off ceremony of the event which will hold from Saturday to Tuesday at the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja.

“This event is one of those we use in showcasing our nation,” he said.

“Because we as a club know sports is what we need to market our country. We are doing our utmost best to organise a grand event.

“President Muhammadu Buhari, who is also the club’s Grand Patron, will be at the tee-off on Saturday morning.

“The grand finale of the event will hold on Tuesday, with the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, as the guest of honour.

“Over the years, we have been part and parcel of the Independence Anniversary celebrations as a club, especially with our effort of hosting an international tournament, but this year is going to be different and special,’’ said Anosike, who is also the club’s Vice-Captain.

He added that this year’s edition would be a three-day programme, instead of the usual two-day tournament and will have a tennis section with players coming from Ghana.

He said the tournament would involve a double matchplay on Saturday, a singles matchplay on Sunday and a regular championship on Tuesday involving between 450 to 500 golfers.

“We already have on their way our friends from the Achimota Golf Club of Accra in Ghana, who will be involved in the matchplay.

“The visiting side will be made up of about 45 players, with about 10 to 15 of them veterans,’’ Anosike said.

The vice-chairman assured that the organisers have made efforts to ensure winners and other participants have a good memory of the 2019 tournament, with arrangements already made for mouth-watering prizes. DAILY TRUST