By: Goodluck E.Adubazi, Abuja.

The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to harnessing sports as a vehicle for national unity, inclusion, and social development, pledging stronger collaboration with organisations promoting grassroots engagement.

Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday while hosting a delegation from the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), the Minister stressed the need for strategic partnerships between government institutions and credible associations to advance key governance objectives.

In a statement issued by the Ministry’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Mrs. Mary Ali, Tunji-Ojo noted that the Ministry of Interior remains focused on its core mandate of safeguarding internal security, ensuring citizenship integrity, and improving institutional efficiency. He added that partnerships with organisations such as LGAN play a significant role in supporting these priorities.

The Minister commended LGAN for its contributions to the growth of women’s golf in Nigeria, describing the association as a vital platform for promoting discipline, leadership, and international representation.

He also highlighted ongoing reforms across agencies under the Ministry, including improvements in passport administration and the deployment of modern e-gate systems at international airports, aimed at enhancing service delivery and rebuilding public trust.

Earlier, LGAN President, Lami Onayi Ahmed, expressed appreciation to the Minister for receiving the delegation despite his tight schedule.

She outlined the association’s mission as the umbrella body for women golfers in Nigeria, dedicated to expanding participation, strengthening capacity building, and boosting international engagement.

Ahmed further praised the Ministry’s reform agenda, particularly efforts to modernise administrative processes, noting that such initiatives align with global best practices and Nigeria’s broader development goals.

Tunji-Ojo assured the association of continued government support for initiatives that empower women and promote sports development nationwide. He urged members to remain ambassadors of national unity by leveraging sports to foster pride, cohesion, and socio-economic growth.

Both parties concluded the meeting with a shared commitment to sustained collaboration in advancing national development objectives.