The Professional Golfers’ Association of Nigeria (PGA of Nigeria) has conferred the prestigious title of Life Vice President on the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilesa, Prof. Olufemi Asaolu, alongside the Chairman of the institution’s Governing Council, Gbenga Onigbogi.

The recognition places both men among a select group of individuals whose enduring contributions have significantly shaped the growth and institutional support of golf in the country.

In an official communication dated April 20, 2026, and endorsed by the Association’s Executive Director, Dr Tony Philmoore, the PGA of Nigeria explained that the honour was in acknowledgment of their sustained philanthropy, evident passion, and consistent financial and institutional backing for sports development, with particular emphasis on golf.

The Association noted that their efforts have not only elevated the status of the game but have also created new opportunities for participation and talent development within the country.

The 271-member body stated that the formal investiture and public presentation of the honour will take place on May 16, 2026, as part of the prize-giving and closing ceremony of the PGA of Nigeria 15th Qualifying School, scheduled to hold at the Python Golf Club in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

“The conferment is further based on your passion, contributions and financial supports to the development of sports, particularly golf in Nigeria. Your engagement of our youths through sports particularly golf is worthy of recognition and highly appreciated by us at the PGA of Nigeria.

“Sir, we congratulate you on this well-deserved honour. It is our belief that it will make you to continue to support professional golf in the country with more zeal and vigour,” the letter reads in part.

Speaking on the appointment, the Captain of the Ijesa Golf and Country Club, Dr Kayode Olagunju, described the conferment as a well-deserved recognition of visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the growth of golf in Nigeria.

He noted that the honour bestowed on the university’s leadership reflects the tangible investments and deliberate efforts that have gone into developing world-class golf facilities and promoting the sport within the academic environment.

Highlighting the importance of the standard on-campus 18-hole golf course, owned by the institution, Dr Olagunju said it would create opportunities for students to develop interests beyond academics, while also exposing them to global sporting culture and potential career pathways within the golf ecosystem.

Olagunju, the Deputy Corps Marshal (retired), Federal Road Safety Corps, said by investing in such a unique facility, the university is not only enhancing campus life but also positioning itself as a destination for sports tourism, professional training and international engagement