By Omoniyi David
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), has announced plans to rehabilitate the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja as part of efforts to restore the facility to its former glory.
FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, disclosed this during a visit to the club’s Board of Trustees, chaired by the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem.
The visit followed concerns raised about the deteriorating state of the clubhouse, which has not seen major renovations since its inauguration in 1991.
Justice Dongban-Mensem highlighted the urgent need for the facility’s upgrade, noting that long years of use without proper maintenance had taken a toll on its infrastructure.
In response, Wike assured that Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, the original contractors who built the club would be invited to undertake the renovation.
He emphasized the importance of preserving government-owned assets and warned against individuals who attempt to privatize public property.
“This club is government property. While I commend you for managing it well, we must not allow it to fall into private hands.
We will restore it as part of our commitment to tourism and hospitality infrastructure under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” Wike stated.
The Minister, though not a golfer himself, expressed his admiration for the club’s potential to boost tourism and serve as a social and recreational hub for visitors, especially during high-profile events such as the ongoing ECOWAS meeting in Abuja.
He described the renovation as a matter of urgency and said the facility must offer visitors a relaxing environment to enjoy and unwind.
Justice Dongban-Mensem expressed optimism that the renewed attention to infrastructure development in the FCT would benefit the golf club as well.
“We are confident that under the dynamic leadership of President Tinubu and your stewardship in the FCT, our IBB International Club will be revitalized,” she said.
Also speaking at the event, a member of the Board of Trustees, Otunba Segun Runsewe, presented a golf memorabilia to the Minister and described Wike as a highly misunderstood but results-driven leader known for getting things done.
