Abuja: The Director-General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Abubakar Sulaiman, has reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to the development and inclusion of women. Sulaiman made this declaration during a courtesy visit by Dr. Lami Ahmed, President of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), along with other executives, to the institute’s permanent site in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Sulaiman assured the delegation of NILDS’ readiness to support and co-host the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT), which is scheduled to take place in the nation’s capital. The championship is set to be held from November 2 to November 7, followed by the Nigerian Ladies Open Golf Championship from November 7 to November 10 at the IBB International Golf and Country Club.
Sulaiman stated that the institute would provide technical and logistical support to ensure the successful hosting of the continental tournament. He highlighted NILDS’ commitment to initiatives
promoting women empowerment, inclusion, and leadership development across various sectors, including sports. He emphasized the significant role of sports as a platform for advancing gender participation, youth engagement, and national development.
Sulaiman also underscored the importance of increasing female representation in governance, policymaking, and democratic institutions throughout the country. He reiterated NILDS’ support for programs that encourage women to take active roles in leadership and nation-building.
Earlier, LGAN President Ahmed announced that Nigeria had secured hosting rights for the biennial championship, which is expected to attract participation from over 30 African countries. She noted that more than 1,000 golfers, officials, diplomats, and supporters are anticipated in Abuja during the championship. Ahmed described the tournament as a platform for promoting gender equity, sports diplomacy, and continental cooperation.
She called on NILDS to partner with the association in deliver
ing a successful championship and advancing sports development policies for women. Ahmed highlighted that the partnership would facilitate the production of research and data on the economic and social impact of women’s sports events in Nigeria. In appreciation of his support for women’s and sports development, the LGAN president presented a plaque to Sulaiman.