IBB Golf Club: FCT Minister Inaugurates Board of Trustees

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has inaugurated the newly constituted Board of Trustees for the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) Golf Club.

Wike said during the inauguration in Abuja, that the FCT Administration was committed to restoring order and efficiency of the prestigious club. He charged the board, which is headed by Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, President of the Court of Appeal, to take the club to greater heights.

The minister noted the lingering crisis affecting the operation of the Golf Course, adding that as the owner, the FCT Administration would watch while it deteriorated. He stressed the need for the new board to conduct a transparent and credible Executive Committee election, amend the club’s constitution and ensure its proper registration.

The minister expressed confidence in the new board and pledged the FCT Administration’s support in resolving existing issues and enhancing the club’s facilities.

“So, for us to have a Board of Trustees that could be led by the President of the Court of Appeal, you know that we are not joking at all,” Wike said.

“We will do everything we can to give the club the necessary support. Let it come back to what it used to be.”

The FCT Minister emphasised the need to restore the club’s international reputation and urged the board to demonstrate commitment to improving the club’s infrastructure and services. According to him, the FCT Administration will be ready to assist anytime where feasible.

The minister also clarified the ownership status of the club, reiterating that it remains the property of the FCT Administration.

“You must know that we are still the owners of the Golf Course. It is not privatised,” he added.

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Wike acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Gen. Ibrahim Haruna Rtd. assuring him of continued recognition as a patron of the club.

In her remarks, Dongban-Mensem expressed the board’s gratitude to the FCT Minister for his prompt action in addressing the recent challenges faced by the club. She acknowledged the contributions of past leadership of the club, particularly the immediate past Chairman of the Board for his dedication to the institution.

She expressed confidence in Wike’s commitment to provide the needed support and pledged to manage the club’s resources effectively.

“I appeal to my colleagues on the board to cooperate so that we can work as a body to uphold the confidence that has been reposed in us,” Justice Dongban-Mensem said.

“I also appeal to our outgoing chairman and other members of the board to stay with us and guide us. Let’s work together as a team.”

The legal luminary pledged the readiness of the new board to uphold the club’s integrity and work diligently. Dongban-Mensem highlighted the economic potential of golf and noted the club’s natural beauty and environmental consciousness, including the protection of local wildlife.