The All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT), a prestigious biennial continental ladies’ golf championship, will be hosted by Nigeria in 2026. This marks the third time Nigeria will have the honor of organizing this esteemed event, having previously hosted it in 1996 at the Ikoyi Club 1938 and in 2010 at the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja. Nigeria’s successful bid, emerging victorious among 20 competing nations, highlights the country’s growing prominence in the world of golf and its commitment to promoting the sport on the African continent. The AACT, often compared to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in football in terms of its significance, promises to be a major sporting event, attracting participants and spectators from across Africa and beyond.
Nigeria’s successful hosting of the West and Central Africa Challenge Trophy, a regional precursor to the AACT, in 2023 at the Lakowe Lakes Golf Estates and Resort in Lagos, played a crucial role in securing the bid. This event showcased Nigeria’s world-class golfing facilities and organizational capabilities, demonstrating its readiness to host a tournament of this magnitude. The participation of ten countries in the regional competition further solidified Nigeria’s reputation as a capable and welcoming host. This experience undoubtedly gave Nigeria a competitive edge in the bidding process, convincing the selection committee of its suitability to stage the AACT in 2026.
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, has been chosen as the host city for the 2026 AACT. The FCT’s modern infrastructure, including top-tier hotels, transportation networks, and, importantly, world-class golfing facilities, made it a compelling choice. The selection of the FCT also offers an opportunity to showcase Nigeria’s capital city to a global audience, highlighting its development and vibrant culture. The AACT is expected to attract participation from over 30 countries, significantly surpassing the 20 nations that competed in the 2024 edition held in Morocco. This increase in participation underscores the growing interest in the championship and further elevates its status as a premier sporting event on the African continent.
The 16th edition of the AACT, held in Morocco in 2024, provided a glimpse of the excitement and high level of competition that can be expected in 2026. Morocco, hosting the event for the first time, emerged victorious, demonstrating the growth and development of women’s golf in the country. The Moroccan team’s triumph marked a milestone in their golfing history, inspiring other nations and adding further intrigue to future tournaments. The presence of strong contenders like South Africa, fourteen-time champions of the AACT, further intensified the competition, showcasing the depth of talent within African women’s golf.
Nigeria’s hosting of the 2026 AACT presents a significant opportunity to promote the sport of golf within the country and across the continent. The event is expected to inspire young golfers, particularly girls, and contribute to the overall development of the sport. Nigeria’s commitment to providing a platform for women’s golf aligns with global efforts to promote gender equality in sports and empower female athletes. The AACT serves as a testament to the increasing recognition and support for women’s golf, highlighting the skill, dedication, and passion of the athletes involved.
The 2026 AACT promises to be a momentous occasion, not just for Nigerian golf, but for the entire African golfing community. It represents a celebration of sporting excellence, cultural exchange, and the unifying power of sports. As Nigeria prepares to welcome the world to its capital city, the stage is set for a memorable and historic championship, one that will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy on the sport of golf in Africa. The AACT 2026 is poised to be a showcase of talent, sportsmanship, and the continued growth of women’s golf on the continent.
