When the topic of golf comes up, Nigeria usually does not also come up in the same conversation. You may here about St. Andrews in Scotland, The Masters in Augusta, or Pebble Beach, but Nigeria? Do they even golf in Nigeria? Yes, we do golf in Nigeria and it is also home to some of the best golf courses in Africa. If you are looking for a challenging and enjoyable golfing experience, then you should definitely consider playing at one of these top 5 courses:
1. Smokin Hills Golf Resort
Smoking Hills Golf Resort is a beautiful course – it is located in the town of Ilara-Mokin, in Ondo State Nigeria. The course was designed by renowned golf course architect Ron Garl, and it opened for play in 2005. Smokin Hills is a par-72 course that measures 7,200 yards from the championship tees. The course features a variety of challenges, including rolling hills, water hazards, and tree-lined fairways. The 16th hole(pictured) at this course is wicked, and it reminds us of the 17th hole at the famous TPC Sawgrass course.
2. IBB International Golf & Country Club
IBB International Golf & Country Club is located in the city of Abuja, the capital of Nigeria. The scenery and backdrop of this course are spectacular. The course was constructed by Julius Berger (conglomerate) and it opened for play in 1993. IBB International is a par-72 course that measures 7,000 yards from the championship tees. The course features a variety of challenges, including water hazards, sand traps, and undulating greens. IBB International is a great choice for golfers of all skill levels, and it is sure to provide a challenging and enjoyable round of golf.
3. Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort
Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort is located in the city of Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State. The course was designed by architect Steve Ritson, and it opened for play in 2007. Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort is a par-72 course that measures 7,200 yards from the championship tees. The course features a variety of challenges, including water hazards, sand traps, and lush vegetation. The course sits in the hills overlooking the tropical rain forests with hills rolling to the Cameroonian border.
4. Lakowe Lakes Golf and Country Estate
Lakowe Lakes Golf and Country Estate is a gated community 30 minutes east of Lagos. The course was designed by South African architect Robert O’Friel, and it opened for play in 2008. Lakowe Lakes Golf and Country Estate is a par-72 course that measures 6,730 yards from the championship tees. The course caters to a wide range of skill levels, and is friendly to beginners. There is a fancy clubhouse and guest cottages on the site.
5. Ikoyi Golf Club
Ikoyi Golf Club is located in the city of Lagos, the commercial capital of Nigeria. The course was founded in 1938, and it is the oldest golf course in Nigeria. Ikoyi Golf Club is a par-72 course that measures 6,800 yards from the championship tees. The course features a variety of challenges, including water hazards, sand traps, and lush vegetation. This club historically was an expat club where European diplomats and workers would enjoy and relax. Currently it is one of the more vibrant and active clubs in West Africa offering a wide range of activities from swimming, squash, tennis and of course – golf.
Are you ready to tee off?
These are just a few of the many great golf courses in Nigeria. If you are planning a trip to Nigeria, be sure to add one of these courses to your itinerary. Being fully transparent, one common theme we have discovered and hear lots about is the lack of maintenance at these courses. Golf courses require a lot of resources, time and maintenance. Otherwise they will soon be overrun with vegetation. Lawns need to be mowed, bunkers raked, and equipment serviced. Nigeria has problem with maintenance, but don’t let this deter you. One positive thing about these courses is that there is seldom any wait times and usually you may be the only one on the course! Enjoy.
