By Jimmy Fatunbi
Organisers of the Golf for Peace tournament, Heartlink Events, have reaffirmed plans to expand the initiative to more states across Nigeria, using the platform to promote unity, charity and social impact through sport.
At the latest edition held at the Ikoyi Club 1938, 11-year-old Toluwalashe Balogun emerged as the overall women’s winner with a net score of 66 over 18 holes, while Abiodun Adesina secured the men’s title with a net score of 70.
Convener of the initiative, Kemi Olowoyo-Otegbade, said the tournament goes beyond competition, serving as a vehicle for dialogue, collaboration and peacebuilding among diverse communities.
“Our goal is to spread a message of love through golf to Nigerians and beyond,” she said. “Promoting peace is itself an act of charity, and sport provides a strong unifying force.”
The event attracted about 120 golfers from across the country, including participants from IBB International Golf and Country Club and Cross Creek Golf Club, alongside players from Lagos, Bayelsa, Ibadan and Abeokuta.
Olowoyo-Otegbade added that future editions are being considered for cities such as Abeokuta, Ibadan and Uyo, subject to support from state governments and the golfing community.
“We are prepared to take the tournament to more clubs nationwide. With the right backing, we can extend this message of peace across the country,” she said.
Chairman of the planning committee, Abimbola Ajinibi, emphasised the importance of non-violent approaches to addressing societal challenges, noting that dialogue and mutual understanding remain key to lasting peace.
Also speaking, Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, praised the initiative for its role in promoting unity.
“Beyond competition, sports continue to serve as a powerful tool for building connections, fostering understanding and driving collective progress,” he said.
