The management of Kaduna Golf Club has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its partnership with FirstBank, targeting a 30 percent increase in patronage through the opening of more accounts by club members, as preparations intensify for the 3rd edition of the FirstBank Golf Tournament.
This was disclosed during a press conference in Kaduna on Thursday, where organisers also revealed that over 200 golfers from across the federation have indicated interest to participate in the tournament scheduled for this weekend at the Kaduna Golf Club.
They noted that the impressive turnout reflects the increasing popularity of golf and the growing prominence of the competition on the national golfing calendar.
Speaking at the briefing, Idris Ibrahim, General Executive, Retail Banking North of First Bank of Nigeria, described the competition as part of ongoing efforts to support sporting activities in the region.
He highlighted that the bank has extended similar support to sports such as tennis and football, with a focus on talent development and encouraging broader participation.
According to Ibrahim, the tournament provides a platform for both amateur and professional golfers to compete, interact, and gain exposure, particularly for players emerging from northern Nigeria.
“FirstBank has proudly supported golf in Nigeria for over 60 years, partnering with the Kaduna Golf Tournament since 2023 to bring this delightful game to the Kaduna golfing community. For more than 130 years, we have remained committed to initiatives that strengthen communities and foster lasting relationships. Sponsoring this tournament reflects these values and underscores our dedication to community engagement across Kaduna State and the wider Northern region.
“The game of golf embodies skill, integrity, focus, resilience, and respect — qualities we uphold at FirstBank. It is gratifying to see these values thrive in this tournament year after year,” Ibrahim said.
He added that the sponsorship is anchored on the bank’s First@sports platform, through which it continues to demonstrate commitment to developing sporting talent in Nigeria, as well as sustaining legacy sporting activities such as golf, polo, and tennis.
Earlier, Captain of the Kaduna Golf Club, Hon. Nazifi Jibril, confirmed that arrangements for the smooth conduct of the tournament had been finalised despite earlier scheduling challenges. He outlined activities lined up for the event, including the arrival of participants, practice rounds, and a ceremonial tee-off to signal the start of the competition.
Jibril said the tournament will feature several categories, including men’s, ladies, veteran ladies, and super veterans, with an overall winner expected to emerge at the end of the event.
“Collaboration has been key to sustaining this tournament over the years, contributing to the steady growth of golf in Kaduna State,” Jibril noted.
He further explained that the press briefing formally marked the official kickoff of activities, adding that participants would begin arriving on Friday, March 27, 2026, with invited golf professionals from the Kaduna axis taking to the course for their rounds. A welcome cocktail is also scheduled for the evening to foster camaraderie among participants.
“The tournament proper will commence on Saturday with a ceremonial tee-off, jointly performed by representatives of FirstBank and Kaduna Golf Club. The competition will feature categories including Men, Ladies, Veterans, Super Veterans, and the Overall Tournament Winner,” he said.