Friday Yohanna has emerged Overall Winner of the 2026 Mama Eunice Jiya Memorial Golf Tournament after an impressive performance at the Minna Cantonment Golf Club.
Yohanna, who played off handicap 10, returned 78 gross and 68 net to claim the coveted title at the tournament’s ninth edition held on Saturday.
The championship was played in stroke-play format and has evolved from a club match-play competition introduced in 2004.
Speaking after his victory, Yohanna described the achievement as special and dedicated it to his supporters, and tournament organisers.
“I am delighted to emerge overall winner in such a prestigious tournament.
The competition was tough, and I thank God for this memorable victory,” he said.
Yohanna commended the organisers for sustaining the championship and preserving the legacy of the late Mama Eunice Jiya through golf development.
“The tournament keeps growing every year. It brings golfers together and promotes friendship, sportsmanship, and healthy competition,” he added.
The immediate past Captain of TYB International Golf Resort and Country Club (TYB-IGRCC), Maj.-Gen. S.S. Jiya thanked participants for honouring his late mother.
“We are deeply grateful to golfers, sponsors, friends, and well-wishers who travelled from different parts of the country to celebrate our mother’s memory,” he said.
Jiya described the large turnout as a reflection of the values of love, humility, and service for which Mama Eunice Jiya was remembered.
“The family’s appreciation goes to every participant whose presence made this year’s memorial successful and memorable,” he added.
Also speaking, Dr Jonathan Jiya, MFR, expressed gratitude on behalf of the family for the support received throughout the tournament.
“We sincerely appreciate everyone who contributed to the success of the event. Your presence and goodwill mean a lot to our family,” he said.
He noted that the memorial had become a platform for strengthening friendships and promoting unity among golfers nationwide.
The Patron of Minna Cantonment Golf Club, Amb. J.A. Gana, commended the organisers and participants for a successful championship.
“This tournament has continued to grow in stature and has become one of the most anticipated golf events in the country,” he said.
Gana said the tournament showcased Minna Cantonment Golf Club’s commitment to promoting golf and fostering national integration.
The Captain of Minna Cantonment Golf Club, Brig.-Gen. H.M. Abubakar, expressed satisfaction with the conduct and quality of the competition.
“We are proud to host golfers from across Nigeria. The turnout and level of play demonstrated the tournament’s importance,” he said.
Abubakar assured participants that the club would continue improving facilities and standards to sustain the tournament’s growth.
The Captain of TYB-IGRCC, Brig.-Gen. Nicholas Ashinze, praised the organisers for delivering a successful championship.
“The organisation was excellent and the atmosphere was remarkable. It was a worthy celebration of Mama Eunice Jiya’s legacy,” he said.
Ashinze noted that the tournament continued to strengthen relationships among golfers while encouraging competitive excellence.
Also speaking, the Vice Captain of TYB-IGRCC, Dr Ali Peters, described the event as one of the best-organised golf tournaments in recent years.
“The organisation was top-notch, and the participation was impressive with no fewer than 168 golfers from across the country taking part,” he said.
Peters said the large turnout reflected the growing popularity and national appeal of the Mama Eunice Jiya Memorial Golf Tournament.
In the ladies’ veteran category, Elizabeth Onwuka won with 118 gross and 82 net.
S.J. Marcus claimed the ladies’ gross title with 84, while Patience Abechi finished runners-up with 94 gross.
Jennifer S. won the ladies’ net category with 93 gross, handicap 20 and net 73.
Dorcas M. returned net 76 for second place, while Ene Francis finished third with net 77.
In the super veteran men’s category, Dibu Ojerinde emerged winner with 103 gross and net 77.
Abubakar Umar won the veteran gross category, while Abdulshaba Panti finished runners-up.
Lubo David claimed the veteran net title with net 70 ahead of Lawrence Kadiri and S.A. Matti.
In Men’s Category Two, Jekennu Austin won gross honours, while Joshua Omeiza finished runners-up.
Shamsudin Tanko secured the best net prize with net 69 ahead of Abdullahi Usman and Yunusa Joseph.
Sunday Felix won the Category One gross title with 72, while Paul Odoh Jr finished runners-up with 80.
Nura Umar placed second in the net category with 69, while Emmanuel Ellah finished third with net 71.
Other novelty prize winners included S.J. Marcus for Nearest the Pin (Ladies) and Nasiru Beli for Nearest the Pin (Men).
The Birdie on Hole 14 prize, sponsored by Hon. Mohammed Ndayako (SAN) was won by Friday Yohanna, Otaru John David, Godwin Idoko, and Jamiu Adedokun.
Meanwhile, other dignitaries at the ceremonial tee-off included Maj.-Gen. P.P. Malla, Commander, TRADOC, and Grand Patron of Minna Cantonment Golf Club.
Also present was Maj.-Gen. H.I. Bature (Rtd.), a former Captain of Minna Cantonment Golf Club.
The tournament ended with a colourful reception and dinner hosted at the residence of Maj.-Gen. S.S. Jiya in Minna.
