Ambassador Ominyi says LAA golf can advance Africa’s progress

The League of African Ambassadors (LAA) is turning to golf as part of its effort to build stronger relationships and support Africa’s development, its president, Ambassador Nwanne Ominyi, said. The association’s first Nigerian fundraising golf programme is scheduled for August 29 and 30 at Ibom Golf & Country Club in Uyo, Akwa Ibom.

Ominyi said the event would use golf to bring diplomats, business figures and development partners together in a less formal setting. The programme is intended to support dialogue, networking, economic discussions and the mobilisation of resources while also creating opportunities for new partnerships.

The Uyo event is also designed to advance the LAA’s wider objectives of encouraging African unity and closer continental cooperation. The association plans to use the programme to promote its vision and create links that can support sustainable development across Africa.

The LAA was inaugurated on October 14, 2025, under the African Union Economic, Social and Cultural Council. Its membership consists of serving and retired ambassadors who are focused on advancing African unity and applying their diplomatic experience to cultural, economic and social development.

Beyond golf, the League’s work includes dialogue, mentorship, youth empowerment and strategic partnerships. Ominyi said the association seeks to complement the work of governments, the African Union and regional organisations through those activities, with golf providing an additional channel for engagement.

The fundraising golf initiative is expected to extend beyond Nigeria. It will later be replicated in 11 African countries as the LAA seeks to deepen diplomatic engagement, strengthen continental partnerships and support its goals of greater economic cooperation and global influence for Africa.