Tunji-Ojo Hosts Women Golfers, Backs Sports as Tool for National Unity and Development
By Onwe Wisdom, Pan Afric Reporters
In a renewed push to harness sports for nation-building, Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strategic partnerships that promote unity, inclusion, and socio-economic development across the country.
The Minister made the pledge while receiving the leadership of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria on a courtesy visit to the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, where he commended the association’s contributions to women’s empowerment and sports development.
According to a press statement issued by the Ministry of Interior and signed by Mary Ali, Head of Press and Public Relations, Dr. Tunji-Ojo underscored the importance of collaboration between government institutions and credible organisations in advancing national development objectives.
Speaking during the meeting, the Minister emphasized that sports remain a powerful vehicle for fostering unity and leadership among citizens.
“Collaboration with credible organisations such as LGAN contributes significantly to our broader governance objectives, particularly in promoting inclusion, discipline, and national cohesion,” he stated.
He further highlighted ongoing reforms within agencies under the Ministry, including improvements in passport administration and the deployment of modern e-gate systems at international airports, aimed at enhancing service delivery and restoring public confidence.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo also praised the association for its role in advancing women’s participation in golf and representing Nigeria on the international stage.
Earlier, President of LGAN, Lami Onayi Ahmed, expressed appreciation to the Minister for the warm reception, noting that the association remains committed to expanding opportunities for women in sports and fostering international engagement.
“Our mission is to provide platforms for capacity building, increase participation, and position Nigerian women golfers for global competitiveness,” she said.
The LGAN delegation also commended the Minister’s reform initiatives, particularly efforts to modernize administrative processes within the Ministry, which they noted align with global best practices.
In his closing remarks, the Minister assured the association of continued government support, urging members to serve as ambassadors of unity and national pride.
“Sports is a unifying force. I encourage you to continue leveraging it as a tool for socio-economic advancement and national integration,” he added.
The visit ended with both parties expressing commitment to sustained collaboration in promoting women empowerment and national development through sports.
