By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
The FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, on Saturday promised to urgently influence intervention to restore the glory of the IBB International Golf Club and Country Club in Abuja.
Wike who was received by the Chairperson of the club’s Board of Trustees (BOT) and President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, when he first visited the golf arena made this promise.
The FCT minister, impressed by what he saw at the Golf Club, noted the urgency of government’s intervention to restore the sports facility, adding that it is a critical national asset which can boost tourism and attract foreign investors to the country.
“This is the property of government, and I am very proud for you to manage it. When I came here, I was quite impressed. Countries without oil or gas thrive on tourism. If we develop our tourist centres, investors will come,” he emphasized.
He blacklisted those who had opposed recent renovations at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre without inspecting the work, adding that Nigeria must maintain high standards.
“Government is not a good manager, which is why we appoint boards to oversee facilities like this.”
“We will not allow anyone to take what belongs to us. Private management is fine, but ownership remains with the government,” he said.
Thereafter, the minister directed Julius Berger Construction, the original builders of the club, to assess and commence urgent repairs, warning that defaulters on government property leases would face sanctions.
He gave warning, “If you do not pay your ground rent, I will seal up your property. We must recover what belongs to the people.”
The minister gave his assurances that the FCT Administration would treat the club’s needs as an emergency, with Julius Berger expected to begin repairs soon.
According to him, the move aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to upgrade infrastructure and promote tourism.
Earlier, Justice Dongban-Mensem applauded the FCT minister’s hands-on leadership, and appealed for swift action to salvage the 33-year-old facility, which she said had deteriorated due to overuse and poor maintenance.
“This club is internationally recognized, but now requires urgent intervention. The clubhouse requires a total renovation, and the golf course is in dire condition. Without immediate action, we risk losing this national treasure,” she said.
She urged Wike to replicate the success of the renovated International Conference
Centre at the golf course, stating that the Golf Club is a “Tourism asset that can diversify our economy.”
She also highlighted the club’s role in grooming professional golfers and boosting Nigeria’s global image, When international players visit, they will see that Nigeria is secure and prosperous,” she added.
Also, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, who presented a symbolic golf gift to Wike, hailed the minister as ‘the most misunderstood Nigerian’ and a transformative leader.
A man who saves IBB Golf Club at this time is a legend. Golf is a $6.4 billion industry in Africa. With your support, Nigeria can benefit greatly,” he added.
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