Prominent legal icon, Dr. Ogwu James Onoja, SAN has been officially decorated as Patron of the Ladies’ Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN) and named Ambassador of the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT), in recognition of his commitment to youth and sports development.
The honour was conferred during a high-level courtesy visit by the leadership of LGAN, led by its President, Dr. Lami Onayi Ahmed, following Nigeria’s successful bid to host the 2026 edition of the prestigious All Africa Challenge Trophy in Abuja.
Presenting the award, Dr. Ahmed described Chief Onoja as a distinguished national figure whose integrity and leadership align with the association’s broader vision for women’s golf and continental sports diplomacy.
“We are deeply honoured to decorate Chief Dr. Ogwu James Onoja, SAN, as Patron of LGAN and Ambassador of the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy. His national standing, moral authority, and unwavering support for youth development make him the ideal personality to guide us as we prepare to host Africa,” she said.
She noted that the 2026 championship, scheduled for November in Abuja, would attract over 30 African nations and represents more than a sporting event.
“This tournament goes beyond golf. It is about diplomacy, unity, institutional collaboration, and projecting Nigeria’s capacity for excellence on the African continent. With Chief Onoja’s guidance and patronage, we are confident of delivering a championship that reflects national pride and global standards,” Dr. Ahmed added.
In his acceptance speech, Chief Onoja expressed gratitude for the recognition and pledged full support for the association’s mission.
“I accept this honour with profound humility and appreciation. The Ladies’ Golf Association of Nigeria has demonstrated vision and courage in positioning our nation to host such a prestigious continental championship. I am proud to associate with this noble cause,” he stated.
He emphasized that the 2026 AACT is a strategic opportunity for Nigeria to strengthen its continental leadership through sports.
“Sports remain one of the most powerful instruments of diplomacy and national integration. Hosting the All Africa Challenge Trophy is not just about competition; it is about showcasing Nigeria’s organisational capacity, hospitality, and unity,” he said.
Chief Onoja further used the occasion to highlight his ongoing sports development initiatives, particularly those targeted at young people.
“Over the years, I have remained committed to structured sports programmes that focus on grassroots talent discovery, mentorship, and infrastructural support. We must intentionally invest in our young people by providing them with platforms to excel, both academically and athletically,” he noted.
According to him, his vision extends to expanding community-based sports schemes that create long-term impact.
“Our sports programmes are designed to instill discipline, resilience, and leadership in young Nigerians. We are working to broaden access to facilities, coaching, and scholarship opportunities, especially for youths in underserved communities. Women and girls must be at the forefront of this vision,” he added.
He assured LGAN of his readiness to mobilize strategic partnerships and institutional support ahead of the championship.
“As Patron and Ambassador, I will deploy my networks and experience to encourage collaboration between the public and private sectors. Together, we will ensure that the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy becomes a benchmark for excellence in African sports,” he pledged.
Nigeria will host the biennial women’s team golf championship for the third time, following previous successful editions in 1996 and 2010.
Nigeria is expected to host more than 30 African nations for the biennial women’s team golf championship, marking the third time the country will stage the prestigious tournament after previous editions in 1996 and 2010. Stakeholders say the decoration of Chief Onoja as Patron and AACT Ambassador signals a strengthened leadership framework and renewed confidence as preparations intensify toward delivering a memorable and globally competitive championship in 2026.
