The maiden edition of the Nigerian Maritime Golf Challenge, held in Lagos, brought together key stakeholders in the maritime and golfing communities, despite heavy morning rains that did little to dampen the spirits of over 80 participants.
Retired Rear Admiral David Adegbola Adeniran emerged as the winner of the maritime nett title, expressing delight at his victory and highlighting the significance of the triumph for the naval community.
Adeniran described golf as a sport that demands integrity, patience, and consistency, mirroring life itself. He encouraged maritime stakeholders to get involved in golf, emphasising that the sport builds integrity, a quality essential for the maritime sector, which is central to Nigeria’s livelihood.
Director of Administration and Human Resources at the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Isichei Osamgbi, noted that the event was a milestone that goes beyond sports, positioning it as a platform to foster partnerships and investments in the maritime industry.
He commended the overwhelming support from maritime stakeholders, including the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), and the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN).
The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Pius Akutah, represented by the Director, Strategic Planning and Research, Rotimi Anifowose, expressed hope that the event would become an annual occurrence, fostering unity amongst maritime stakeholders and opening doors for interested investors in the sector.
As Nigeria approaches its 65th Independence anniversary, stakeholders expressed optimism that initiatives like the Maritime Golf Challenge would promote sportsmanship, deepen collaboration, and investment opportunities in the nation’s maritime and blue economy.
The event’s success has set the stage for future gatherings, potentially cementing the Nigerian Maritime Golf Challenge as a key fixture in the country’s sporting and maritime calendars.