From Romanus Ugwu, Abuja
Former Senate President Dr Iyorchia Ayu, ex-Kogi State governor Capt. Idris Wada, and his wife, Hajia Halima, Senator Ezenwa Onyewuchi, AVM Ayodele Hanidu and Dele Oye were among the 113 new members inducted into TYB International Golf Resort and Country Club (TYBIGRCC) in Abuja.
The third induction kitty, which took place over the weekend, combined competitive golf and other activities designed to integrate the new members into the club’s sporting and social community.
Apart from the induction ceremony and oath-taking, the event equally featured presentation of induction packages, a clubhouse tour, a cocktail reception and a competition coordinated by the club’s resident professional.
Speaking during the ceremony, the captain of the club, Brig-Gen Nicholas Ashinze, described the induction as an important milestone in the club’s efforts to expand its membership base and strengthen its traditions of excellence, sportsmanship and fellowship.
Ashinze further noted that the club is committed to creating an enabling environment where members could develop their golfing skills, build lasting relationships and contribute to the growth of the sport.
According to him: “We are delighted to welcome 113 new members into the TYB family. Their induction reflects the confidence people have in our club and the value they place on golf as a sport that promotes discipline, integrity and friendship.”
He also said that the club would continue to provide opportunities for members of different backgrounds and skill levels to participate in golf and enjoy the benefits of an inclusive sporting community.
“Our vision is to build a club that combines sporting excellence with strong social values. We want our members to feel welcome, participate actively and become ambassadors for golf wherever they go,” Ashinze said.
While commending the organisers, members and guests for contributing to the success of the event, the captain assured that the club would continue to organise activities that encouraged participation and strengthened its reputation.
Equally speaking in his remarks, the vice-captain, Dr Ali Peters, described the turnout at the induction kitty as a demonstration of the growing appeal of TYBIGRCC and the increasing interest in golf as a platform for recreation, networking and community building.
Peters said the event offered the new members an opportunity to experience the club’s sporting culture while interacting with established golfers and other distinguished guests.
“The induction kitty is more than a golf competition. It provides an opportunity for new members to connect with the club, understand its traditions and become part of a community united by a passion for golf,” he said.
He promised that the club would continue to encourage healthy competition and create opportunities for golfers to improve their skills and participate in regular tournaments.
“We want every member, whether a beginner or an experienced golfer, to feel included and motivated to participate. Through regular competitions and social activities, we can nurture talent, strengthen friendships and contribute to the development of golf in Nigeria,” Peters said.
In the main competition, Godwin Gabriel, playing off handicap five, emerged overall net winner in the inductees’ category with a gross score of 72 and a net score of 67.
Gabriel described his victory as an encouraging start to his membership of the club, saying he was delighted to emerge winner in a competition that attracted golfers and distinguished personalities.
Expressing delight, he said: “I am very excited to win the net category, especially at an event organised to welcome new members into the club. It is a memorable experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to compete and come out on top.”
He also said the result would motivate him to improve his game, participate more actively in the club’s competitions and build stronger relationships with fellow golfers.
“Golf requires patience, concentration and consistency. This victory will encourage me to keep working on my game, learn from more experienced players and maintain the discipline needed to perform well in future tournaments,” Gabriel said.
While commending the club’s leadership and organisers for providing an opportunity for new members to showcase their abilities, he said the development will foster friendship and healthy competition.
K.K Yusuf claimed the best gross prize in the inductees’ category with 83, while Mike Ekoja Onoja finished runner-up in the net category with 73 after returning 85 gross off handicap 12.
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