The organisers of the seventh CIO Golf Championship have confirmed a record ₦100 million prize purse, drawing top African professionals to Python Golf Club, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, from November 8 to 15.

With 30 African professionals entered alongside a strong Nigerian contingent, the championship is strengthening Nigeria’s standing on the continental golf calendar. It offers substantial financial rewards and a potential pathway to the Magical Kenya Open.

Ikenna Okafor, Chairman of Keves Global Leasing, described the event as Nigeria’s richest professional golf tournament and a growing platform for African talent.

“The CIO Championship is the most prized professional golf event in Nigeria, with a purse of ₦100 million. Our commitment is to reward excellence, attract Africa’s finest players and create opportunities for Nigerian professionals beyond our shores,” Okafor said.

He stressed that the biggest draw goes beyond the prize money. The winner gains a potential route to the Magical Kenya Open, a DP World Tour event, and global exposure.

“This pathway is particularly important for Nigerian professionals who possess the talent but lack regular access to international competition. We are creating a bridge between local excellence and global opportunities,” he added.

The Kenya Open lets players test themselves against established international professionals, making the CIO Championship an increasingly valuable career stepping stone.

Defending champion Francis Epe, who won the 2025 edition, acknowledged the event’s growing continental influence. He said its competitive field and substantial rewards have raised the profile of Nigerian professional golf, and he praised the tournament for showcasing Python Golf Club and Nigeria’s capacity to host major international events.

The week opens on November 8 with the Kids Championship, underlining the organisers’ commitment to grassroots development. Elite amateurs and professionals take centre stage from November 11 to 15, battling for the ₦100 million purse and international recognition.