By Akanimo Kufre
Princewill Albert Akpan emerged as the champion of the 2026 Ibom Open Golf Tournament on Sunday, June 7, following three days of competitive action that attracted over 350 golfers from across Nigeria and several African countries to Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital.
Playing off a handicap of 16, Akpan delivered an impressive net score of 67 to outshine a strong field of competitors and claim the coveted championship trophy. His victory also earned him attractive prizes, including a return flight ticket to a destination of his choice, courtesy of Uganda Airlines.
A total of 159 golfers qualified for the championship round played at the renowned Ibom Golf Course, widely regarded as one of the finest golf facilities in West Africa.
The tournament, sponsored by Ship Afrika alongside 25 other corporate partners, drew praise from several distinguished participants, including former Kogi State Governor Idris Wada, Director-General of the Nigeria Institute of Sports Philip Shaibu, Senator Bassey Albert, Senator Anosike, Umana Umana, and Obong Nsima Ekere.
Although some players complained of dehydration due to the intense sunshine during Sunday’s final round, many acknowledged that course conditions were significantly improved compared to Friday and Saturday when intermittent rainfall affected play.
An elated Akpan, a businessman and member of Ibom Golf Club, expressed gratitude after receiving the championship trophy, succeeding former winner Usenobong Akpabio.
The closing ceremony was attended by the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Anieti Udofia, who reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to sustaining the Ibom Golf Resort and the Arise Palm Golf Resort as premier tourism and sporting destinations.
Major Winners
Champion
– Princewill Albert Akpan (Ibom Golf Club)
Super Veteran
– Tajudeen Saka (Elephant Cement Golf Club, Shagamu)
Veteran
– Nwachukwu Nduka (Ibom Golf Club)
Best Gross Men
– Usenobong Akpabio (Ibom Golf Club)
Best Gross Ladies
– Patience Akpan (Ibom Golf Club)
Men’s Handicap 0–5
– Sunday Felix (Abuja)
Men’s Handicap 6–12
– Mustapha Hamza (IBB Golf Club, Abuja)
Men’s Handicap 13–18
– Victor Okah (Port Harcourt Golf Club)
Men’s Handicap 19–28
– Ifiok Akpabio (Ibom Golf Club)
Beginners Category Runner-up
– Kennedy Ojeogwu (Bonny Island Golf Club)
Ladies Veteran
– Mrs. Mary Obot (Ibom Golf Club)
Ladies Handicap 0–18
– Aniekan Akpan (Ibom Golf Club)
Ladies Handicap 19–36
– Nike Festus (Abuja)
