The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has recently announced plans to renovate and upgrade the IBB International Golf and Country Club to international standards. The announcement was made during Wike’s visit to the club in Abuja on Saturday, where he conducted an assessment of the current facilities.
Wike highlighted that the renovation would kick off with the Club House, which serves as a gathering spot for golfers to relax and socialize. He emphasized that the renovation process would be carried out in phases, with the Club House being the first priority. The construction company entrusted with this task is Julius Berger, which originally built the facilities in 1991.
To prevent the club from deteriorating further, Wike mentioned that the club would remain closed during the renovation period. This move ensures that once the upgrades are completed, visitors can enjoy a refreshed and modernized environment. The Minister stressed the importance of swift action to create a welcoming space for individuals to unwind, enjoy refreshments, and rest.
In addition to the renovation plans, Wike stated that transforming the club into a tourist destination could attract investments. By appealing to a broader audience and offering enhanced facilities, the club has the potential to become a hotspot for locals and tourists alike. The Minister encouraged the Board of Trustees (BOT) to explore innovative revenue-generating ideas to sustain the club’s operations without relying solely on government funding.
Recognizing the challenges of government management, Wike underscored the necessity of appointing the BoT and the Interim Management Committee (IMC) to oversee the club’s operations. This strategic decision aims to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the club’s management, ensuring that it operates at a high standard akin to international facilities.
Emphasizing the need for teamwork, Wike called on the BoT and IMC members to collaborate closely to elevate the club to international standards. Maintaining a united front is crucial in achieving the desired outcome and enhancing the club’s reputation. Wike also issued a stern warning against any attempts to undermine or disrupt the renovation efforts.
Prior to Wike’s visit, the BoT Chairperson, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, had appealed for the refurbishment of the club to align its standards with the recently renovated Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre. Dongban-Mensem highlighted the historical significance of the club, which was established by the Federal Government in 1991 and has since grown to accommodate over 5,000 members.
With proper renovation and upgrades, the IBB International Golf and Country Club has the potential to become a prominent tourist attraction, ultimately contributing to the economic growth of the country. By enhancing the facilities and services, the club can attract a larger, more diverse audience, thereby stimulating economic activities within the surrounding area.
