Abuja: The Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) has pledged to partner with the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN) to support Nigeria’s hosting of the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT). The Director-General of ECN, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi, made the pledge when the President of LGAN, Dr Lami Ahmed, led a delegation on a courtesy visit to the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Abdullahi stated that sports serve as a strong platform for national unity, youth engagement, and international cooperation, aligning with the Federal Government’s development priorities. He commended LGAN for securing the hosting rights for the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy, which is scheduled to take place in Abuja. Abdullahi emphasized that hosting international sporting events could stimulate tourism, promote infrastructure utilization, and strengthen Nigeria’s ability to organize major continental championships.
Abdullahi noted that sports diplomacy plays an important role in national development and expressed pride in associating with initiatives that promote Africa’s unity and Nigeria’s leadership. He thanked LGAN for recognizing the Commission and pledged continued collaboration with the association. Abdullahi reiterated the Commission’s commitment to supporting platforms that encourage youth participation, women’s leadership, and national development.
The ECN boss highlighted the Commission’s mandate as the apex government body responsible for strategic planning and coordination of national energy policies. He explained that the Commission, established in 1979, guides Nigeria’s energy development and ensures sustainable utilization of resources across oil, gas, and renewable energy sectors. Abdullahi added that the Commission is leading Nigeria’s transition to renewable energy through initiatives focusing on solar, wind, hydro, and bioenergy development.
Abdullahi further mentioned that ECN is collaborating with international partners to boost solar manufacturing, renewable energy investments, and energy efficiency frameworks. He stated that their work aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes cleaner and more reliable energy to drive economic growth.
Earlier, Ahmed announced that Nigeria would host the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy from Nov. 1 to Nov. 7 in Abuja. She highlighted that the championship would take place at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, attracting participants from more than 30 African countries. Ahmed described the tournament as Africa’s premier women’s team golf championship, bringing together elite players, officials, and delegates from across the continent.
Ahmed recalled that Nigeria previously hosted the championship in 1996 at the Ikoyi Club and again in 2010 in Abuja. She noted that Nigeria regained the hosting rights after presenting a successful bid before the continental body in Morocco. Ahmed emphasized that the event would showcase Nigeria’s capacity to host major international sporting competitions and promote African unity. She commended the National Sports Commission (NSC) for supporting the championship and recognizing its contribution to Nigeria’s sports economy.
Ahmed later presented an appreciation award to Abdullahi and invited him to serve as ambassador for the 2026 championship. Members of the LGAN delegation included Dame Julie Donli, Maryam Shehu, Halima Salihu, Wasilat Nana Abubakar, Martina Saleh, MaryRose Richard-Obioha, Kikelomo Oluwole, and Jumai Adamu, as well as members of the AACT media team.