Golf as a Pathway for Youth Engagement in Nigeria

Jayeola Liadi, the head professional at MicCom Golf Club in Ada, Osun State, expressed that golf can serve as a significant platform for engaging youth and reorienting them socially. During a golf tournament organized by MicCom Golf Resort to celebrate the 80th birthday of Chief Tund Badmu, Liadi highlighted that golf should no longer be viewed strictly as an elitist sport.

He stressed the importance of proper investment in grassroots development to discover young talent and keep youth away from crime and social vices. Liadi called for government intervention to support golf programs that can attract and engage young people.

He noted that Nigeria has the potential to produce world-class golfers capable of competing in global tournaments, referencing the success of Osun State in winning gold at the last National Sports Festival in Abeokuta. The tournament attracted 65 golfers from across the southwest, with five representing their clubs, reflecting a growing interest in the game.