ABUJA: NIGERIA’S First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, is expected to lead a distinguished gathering of dignitaries at the official opening of the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT) in Abuja today, marking the start of six days of ladies’ golf, cultural celebrations and continental engagement.

Tinubu, who is the Grand Patron of AACT 2026, will officially declare the championship open during a ceremony scheduled for 3:30 pm at the IBB International Golf and Country Club.

According to the Tanzania Ladies Golf Union (TLGU) vice president Ayne Magombe, who is also the Tanzania ladies golf team Manager, the ceremony will bring together participating teams, golf administrators, delegates and guests, with the First Lady expected to address the gathering and lead the ceremonial tee-off alongside other designated dignitaries.

Magombe told the ‘Daily News’ from Abuja yesterday that the opening programme will also feature a welcome address by Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN) President Dr Lami Onayi Ahmed, remarks from the Nigeria Golf Federation, The R&A and AACT representatives, goodwill messages, and the hoisting of participating countries’ flags.

Meanwhile, Magombe said Tanzania will have representatives in the Supporters’ Golf Game scheduled for today as activities ahead of the continental championship get underway.

“TLGU President Timea Chogo will be among four Tanzanians taking part in the event, alongside Aalaa Somji, Loveness Frank and TLGU handicap secretary Chiku Elias,” she said.

The Supporters’ Golf Game is part of Tuesday’s programme, which will also include practice sessions ahead of the official opening ceremony.

Tanzania will field a three-player team comprising captain Madina Hussein, Hawa Wanyeche and Neema Olomi, under the management of Magombe.

Magombe said teams from 20 African countries, including defending Champions Morocco, Tanzania, Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, South Africa, Ghana, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Malawi, Mauritius, Botswana, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Eswatini, Gabon, Senegal and Togo will battle it out for the top honour.

Despite the demanding international journey, Magombe stressed that the players are in good condition ahead of the championship.

“The team safely arrived in Abuja on Sunday evening and received a warm welcome from host officials,” noted Magombe.