Nigerian Golfer David Gabriel Triumphs at West Africa Masters II in Abuja, Claims ₦2.5 Million Prize.

Nigerian Golfer David Gabriel Triumphs at West Africa Masters II in Abuja, Claims ₦2.5 Million Prize.

Nigerian professional golfer David Gabriel has emerged champion of the second edition of the West Africa Masters Golf Tournament, popularly known as the Rowland Adewumi Cup, following an impressive performance at the TYB International Golf Resort and Country Club in Abuja.

Gabriel secured the prestigious title with a gross score of 68, outperforming 71 other professional golfers who participated in the competition. His victory earned him the tournament’s top prize of ₦2.5 million.

Organized by the West Africa Masters Golf Foundation and powered by Kabom Golf Developers, the tournament attracted 72 professional golfers competing for a combined prize purse of ₦13 million.

The competition represents another effort to strengthen professional golf in Nigeria by providing local players with opportunities to demonstrate their abilities, compete for financial rewards and gain greater recognition within the sport.

Emmanuel Odoh Finishes Second as Azu Ijeoma Takes Third Position

Emmanuel Odoh, younger brother of former Nigerian number-one-ranked golfer Oche Odoh, finished in second position with a gross score of 69.

Azu Ijeoma also returned a score of 69 to secure a place among the tournament’s leading competitors.

In the ladies’ category, Tina Micah emerged victorious with a gross score of 76, while Stephanie Dafor finished second after recording 77.

Gabriel described his victory as particularly meaningful, considering the quality of competitors who participated in the tournament.

He recalled that he had competed in the inaugural edition but failed to achieve his desired result, making his latest performance a significant personal milestone.

The champion also commended the organisers for sustaining the competition, noting that professional tournaments provide golfers with opportunities to improve their skills, earn income and develop their careers.

Organisers Target Greater International Recognition for Nigerian Golf

Speaking on the tournament’s significance, Akabom Enebong, Chairman of the FCT Golf Association and organiser of the competition, said the event was established to promote professional golf and create more opportunities for Nigerian players.

He noted that the participation of 72 golfers demonstrated growing interest in the championship and represented progress towards establishing a stronger professional golf competition in Nigeria.

The tournament also featured the unveiling of the blue jacket, which has become the symbolic award worn by the winner of the Rowland Adewumi Cup.

Enebong disclosed that the original prize purse of ₦12 million was increased to ₦13 million following additional financial support from Dame Julie Donli, whose contribution was directed towards supporting professional female golfers.

He further emphasized the economic potential of sports, arguing that increased investment in sporting competitions could generate employment, encourage youth participation and create sustainable opportunities for athletes.

According to the organisers, plans are underway to expand the 2027 edition by attracting more international participants and securing the tournament’s inclusion in the professional golf calendar.

The inaugural edition was held at the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja in 2024.

Gabriel’s triumph therefore represents an encouraging development for Nigerian professional golf, while the tournament’s growing profile highlights the importance of sustained private-sector investment, institutional collaboration and competitive platforms in advancing sports across West Africa.