Grace Agbo Wins TYB Ladies Golf Open, Competitors Express Deep Gratitude to Buratai
By Matthew Eloyi
Grace Agbo has emerged as the champion of the 2nd Tukur Yusuf Buratai (TYB) Ladies Golf Open Championship held in Abuja, capturing the most coveted trophy of the international tournament after playing a total of 239 gross over three days. Agbo posted scores of 78, 85, and 76 on the first, second, and third days, respectively.
Her closest rival, Susan Marcus, finished as the first runner-up with a total of 240 gross, while Evelyn Oyome came in third with 243 gross.
Speaking with teary eyes after lifting the championship title, the 18-year-old Agbo described the victory as a dream come true.
“It was not easy, but I gave it my best, and I am glad that my efforts yielded positive results in the end,” she said.
“The second day was disappointing, but I believed in myself and made three birdies on the final day, which turned the game around,” she added.
Agbo also shared her future ambitions, saying, “I won’t just play golf in Nigeria—I aspire to become a world champion. I hope to inspire the youth to pursue their dreams through discipline and hard work, just as golf has taught me.”
The tournament also saw Pro Emmanuel Odoh claiming the highest prize in the professional category with a total of four birdies and a gross of 68.
In the women’s category, Joy Ekhator secured victory in category two with a total gross of 261, while Martina Saleh triumphed in the veteran category.
Maj.-Gen. Samson Jiya, Captain of the TYB Golf Club, hailed the tournament as a major milestone in the club’s history, expressing deep gratitude to the club’s life patron, retired Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, and the grand patron, Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. T.A. Lagbaja, for their unwavering support.
“Their efforts in providing a world-class golf course have allowed us to host this prestigious tournament,” Jiya remarked.
Lady Captain Maureen Apute echoed these sentiments, offering heartfelt thanks to Buratai, the service chiefs, and sponsors for making the event a success.
“Your support has showcased the incredible talent of women’s golf in Nigeria,” she said.
The ceremony concluded with a special presentation to Lt.-Gen. Buratai, honouring his contributions to the sport and the club’s continued success.