First Bank of Nigeria Limited has officially reaffirmed its commitment to sports advancement in the country by sponsoring the seventh edition of the OBJ Golf Tournament, which is set to take place at the Abeokuta Golf Club on Saturday, June 14, 2025.
The highly anticipated tournament, hosted annually in honor of Nigeria’s former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, celebrates his influential contributions to Nigeria’s economic, political, and social transformation. First Bank’s sponsorship underscores its continued support for grassroots and professional sports through its flagship initiative, First@Sports.
A Celebration of Leadership and Sporting Excellence
The OBJ Golf Tournament has grown to become one of the most reputable golfing events in the Nigerian sports calendar. Launched in 2015, the tournament aims to recognize and honor the enduring legacy of Chief Obasanjo, who remains a towering figure in Nigeria’s post-independence history. Over the years, the event has attracted prominent golfers, dignitaries, and business leaders from across the nation, creating a platform where sportsmanship meets celebration.
In supporting this year’s edition, First Bank reiterated that its involvement is not merely a sponsorship but a continuation of its rich tradition of investing in platforms that promote national unity, wellness, and talent development. The Bank’s First@Sports program serves as the driving force behind its involvement in various sporting disciplines, from golf and polo to tennis and basketball.
Abeokuta Golf Club Ready to Host the Nation
As preparations intensify ahead of the event, Sunday Ajiboye, the Captain of Abeokuta Golf Club, confirmed that all logistical and operational plans have been finalized. According to him, the venue is being fine-tuned to ensure a seamless and entertaining experience for participants and spectators alike.
Ajiboye stated, “This tournament has grown in stature each year, and 2025 will be no exception. We are expecting a vibrant turnout, and we’re prepared to deliver a world-class experience. It’s a celebration of golf and greatness. We promise a memorable day filled with excitement, excellence, and true sporting spirit.”
The Club’s leadership has promised an unforgettable experience, with this year’s edition expected to feature high-level competition, networking opportunities, and cultural displays. Organizers have assured participants that safety, comfort, and engagement remain top priorities.
First Bank’s Unwavering Support for Sports
First Bank’s involvement in the OBJ Golf Tournament is not a one-off endeavor but part of a broader, strategic commitment to the sporting sector. For more than six decades, the Bank has played a pivotal role in the evolution of sports in Nigeria. One of its most enduring legacies is the Lagos Amateur Open Golf Championship, which it has proudly supported for over 63 years, making it one of the oldest sports sponsorships in Africa.
Beyond golf, the Bank has been instrumental in promoting other traditional and elite sports such as polo and lawn tennis, aligning with its vision to use sports as a tool for empowerment, discipline, and community development. These initiatives also highlight the Bank’s belief in fostering unity and national pride through competitive events.
According to representatives of First Bank, supporting the OBJ Golf Tournament is a natural extension of their belief in nation-building through impactful partnerships. The Bank emphasized that through sustained investment in sports, it aims to nurture emerging talents, encourage healthy lifestyles, and enhance Nigeria’s reputation on the global sporting stage.
Open Field for Professionals and Amateurs Alike
The 2025 OBJ Golf Tournament will bring together a diverse group of participants, including professional and amateur golfers from various states and regions. This blend of talent is expected to create an engaging competition that showcases skill, sportsmanship, and camaraderie among Nigeria’s golfing community.
The event will feature multiple categories and match formats, allowing both seasoned players and new entrants to test their abilities on the lush greens of Abeokuta. With First Bank’s continued support, the tournament has attracted an increasing number of participants over the years, transforming it into a national platform for golfing excellence.
Attendees can expect a vibrant atmosphere complete with live coverage, hospitality lounges, award presentations, and media interactions. In past editions, the tournament has been graced by high-profile guests, including government officials, business executives, and veteran athletes.
A Lasting Legacy for Future Generations
As the OBJ Golf Tournament returns for its seventh installment, the focus remains on legacy — both that of Chief Obasanjo, whose name the tournament bears, and that of First Bank, whose consistent support has given the event longevity and prestige.
Chief Obasanjo, a former Head of State and two-time President, has been praised for his pivotal role in stabilizing Nigeria’s democratic institutions and advancing socio-economic reforms. The tournament serves not just as a tribute to his statesmanship but also as a testament to the enduring power of sports to bring people together and inspire excellence.
In many ways, the event mirrors the life and values of the man it honors — discipline, resilience, unity, and progress. By backing the tournament, First Bank is ensuring that these ideals continue to influence younger generations of Nigerians, particularly those who see sports as a viable career or lifestyle.
Looking Ahead
With just days to the tee-off, excitement is building among players, spectators, and sponsors. The OBJ Golf Tournament has become more than just a sports competition — it is now a national celebration that cuts across age, gender, and background. It exemplifies what can be achieved when private institutions like First Bank collaborate with community organizations to uplift sports and preserve history.
For First Bank, the OBJ Golf Tournament is one of many avenues through which it hopes to drive positive change and create value within Nigerian society. By combining sports promotion with community development, the Bank is setting the standard for corporate involvement in national transformation.
As June 14 approaches, all eyes turn to Abeokuta Golf Club, where history, honor, and healthy competition will collide on the fairway.
