For the first time ever, the 2025 Qatar Open Golf Championship will feature two Nigerian amateur golfers. This milestone follows the Rebuilding Trust: Showcasing Talents golf competition organized by the High Performance Centre and Sports Leadership Hub of the Sports University of Nigeria in Doha, Qatar.
Since 2006, Nigerian golfers had been banned from participating in the event due to previous instances of golfers absconding upon arrival in Qatar, despite receiving travel support and visas. However, through the efforts of Dr. Bob Olukoya and his team, this barrier is now being lifted, marking a new era for Nigerian amateur golfers.
The two Qatar Open slots will be awarded to the top two finishers of a qualifying tournament set to take place in Nigeria from January 24-26, 2025. The competition will feature golfers from both Nigeria and the diaspora, with a handicap limit of 9, in line with the Qatar Open’s regulations.
Dr. Olukoya expressed optimism about the potential for Nigerian golfers to succeed in the Qatar Open, with the winner automatically qualifying for the Qatar Masters, a key event in the DP World Tour. Olajide Bolaji, Technical Director of the Nigeria Golf Federation, praised the opportunity and promised support for the golfers heading to Qatar.
This initiative offers a significant opportunity for Nigerian amateur golfers to showcase their talents on the global stage.