Lalong Suggest Ways To Earn In Foreign Currency

Plateau State Governor Simon Bako has suggested Nigeria exploit the economic potential of golf as a sport that can help the country earn foreign exchange as well as improve tourism, leisure and business.

Lalong said this Thursday at the First Nigeria Golf Federation Summit for Captains of Golf Clubs held in Abuja. 

He said those who are into the game of golf can testify of its unique opportunities for recreation, health and well-being, socialisation, and networking among others which are of huge benefits.

"Plateau State being the host of the first golf club in Nigeria, Rayfield 1913 among others, understands the powerful role that golf plays in the economy of a State and the country at large.

“This year, we had the honour of having former Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon commission the redesigned and improved Rayfield Golf course which has now been transformed from a brown to green.

"We have equally continued to work on the Lamingo Golf course and also support the development of other Golf courses such as the Rhino, NIPSS among others."

He charged the Technical Session to look into the growth of the game particularly in recruiting more members and reaching out to young targets that will not only understand the game but also embrace it and utilise the opportunities it provides.

“This calls for synergy between the Government, private sector and the golfing community in Nigeria towards making sure that the game is put on the front burner of sporting activities in Nigeria.

"I am sure this Technical Session will do justice to such yearning and chart a way forward," he said.

Minister of Sports Sunday Dare assured that the Federal Government will continue to work at improving sporting activities including golf which he said was a unique sport with global recognition, fortune and fame.