Fresh controversy has erupted within the Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) of Nigeria following plans by its leadership to stage a qualifying school aimed at admitting new players into the professional ranks, despite mounting concerns over dwindling tournaments and sponsorship.
The qualifying event, scheduled for May in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, has drawn criticism from stakeholders who argue that the move is ill-timed, given the current struggles facing Nigeria’s professional golf circuit.
For the first time in years, the PGA is grappling with the prospect of a tournament drought, as several sponsors have withdrawn support, leaving players with limited opportunities to compete and earn a living.
Critics said expanding the number of professionals under such conditions reflects a disconnect between leadership decisions and the realities on the ground.
A member of the association, who expressed frustration over the development, questioned the rationale behind the move, likening it to “adding more passengers to a sinking ship.”
The controversy is further complicated by an ongoing leadership crisis within the body. The Executive Committee, led by Tony Philmoore, which assumed office in November 2023 for a two-year tenure, is facing allegations of attempting to extend its term to five years – claims that have been strongly disputed by an opposing faction.
Dissenting members insisted there was no formal approval for any tenure extension at the association’s Annual General Meeting, warning that such actions could undermine governance and deepen divisions within the organisation.
Amid the leadership tussle, professional golfers said they were bearing the brunt of the crisis.
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One of the players affected, Bala, lamented the loss of key tournaments, including a regular season-opening event in January, attributing the development to the ongoing internal conflicts.
Bala, a professional golfer, said: “We have lost one of our key regular year opening events in January due to this situation. I heard that sponsors said we should go and put our house in order first.
“It is a shame that the leadership are busy fighting for position, while the little channel for members to showcase their talent and earn their livelihood is being destroyed. I joined this career with so much hope. I am confident in my ability but this situation has really made me depressed.”
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Stakeholders also expressed concern over reports that some sponsors were distancing themselves from the planned qualifying school in Port Harcourt, citing uncertainty and reputational risks associated with the association’s internal disputes.
As the scheduled date approaches, attention is now focused on whether the qualifying event will proceed as planned and what it could mean for the future of professional golf in Nigeria.
The stakeholders warned that without swift reconciliation and strategic direction, the crisis within the PGA Nigeria could have lasting implications – not just for its leadership, but for the survival of the sport’s professional ecosystem in the country.
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