FCT golf association to establish academies, ranges

In a continued bid to develop the game of golf in the federal capital territory (FCT), the FCT golf association caretaker committee has indicated plans to establish academies and ranges across the six local government areas (LGAs).

The committee made this known during a working/familiarisation visit to the FCT’s director of sports, Luka Istifanus.

The Caretaker Committee Chairman, Mr. Akabom Enebong, who led other members on the visit, stated that the initiative aims to create golf academies and practice ranges within the FCT to foster interest and growth in the sport.

“We want to thank the ministry for allowing us to serve. We have laid our plans and we seek your guidance and blessings.

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“We want to take sports to the grassroots, to the primary and secondary schools and catch these talents young. Part of the ways is by us establishing golf ranges and academies within Abuja as these will ignite the love and passion for the game. We will be working with other departments within the FCTA and the military because they have several courses in the FCT,” he said.

In his remarks, Istifanus agreed to the establishment of the academies and ranges aimed at making FCT a golf haven.

“The issue of setting up academies can be achieved over time. It’s a laudable idea and this will help us achieve podium finishes at national competitions. This move will make Abuja a golf haven,” he said.

He further tasked the committee with ensuring Team Abuja performs well at the forthcoming National Sports Festival.

“I am soliciting for two gold medals in golf. We have the task of seeing our teams do well. And I want to assure you that the FCTA will support you in this quest to make Abuja a golf tourist centre and a force to be reckoned with in games,” he concluded.