In a bold move to restore prestige and order to Abuja’s iconic IBB International Golf and Country Club, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has appointed Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, President of the Court of Appeal, as Chairperson of the club’s Board of Trustees (BoT). The shakeup, announced on April 5, 2025, follows internal turmoil at the club and signals Wike’s push to reclaim its global standing.
New Board, New Vision
The revamped BoT, inaugurated at Wike’s official residence in Life Camp, Abuja, includes high-profile members:
- Otunba Olusegun Runsewe (Culture/Arts Advocate)
- Mrs. Grace Ihonvbere (Policy Expert)
- S.L. Ameh (SAN) (Senior Advocate of Nigeria)
- Admiral Victor Adedipe (rtd) (Ex-Military Leader)
- Chief Patrick Chidolue, Hamid Abbo, and Mr. Ikokwu
Outgoing chair General I.B.M. Haruna (rtd) transitions to a patron role alongside King Alfred Diete-Spiff, Dr. Tim Menakaya, and Ambassador Babagana Kingibe. Notably, Chief Philip Asiodu exits the board entirely.
Wike’s Mandate: Transparency, Reform, and Ownership
The FCT Minister left no ambiguity about the club’s governance:
- Ownership clarity: “The IBB Golf Club belongs to the FCTA. It is not privatized—we issued a Certificate of Occupancy, but ownership remains with the government.”
- Urgent reforms: Ordered the board to ensure “credible Executive Committee elections,” amend the club’s constitution, and secure proper registration.
- Infrastructure revival: Pledged support to upgrade facilities and services, stressing the need to “regain international reputation.”
Wike praised Haruna’s past leadership but insisted fresh blood was needed: “We cannot fold our hands and watch things deteriorate.”
Dongban-Mensem’s Pledge: Unity and Excellence
Justice Dongban-Mensem acknowledged the weight of her appointment:
- Restoring harmony: “We shall strive to rebuild trust and unity among members.”
- Collaborative resolve: Urged board colleagues to “cooperate and uphold the confidence reposed in us.”
- Strategic vision: Vowed to leverage partnerships and prudent resource management to elevate the club’s profile.
Why This Matters
The IBB Golf Club, a symbol of Abuja’s elite leisure and networking, has faced operational strife and reputational decline. Wike’s intervention reflects broader efforts to strengthen FCTA-owned assets. However, challenges loom:
- Balancing authority: FCTA’s ownership vs. member autonomy.
- Delivering transparency: Ensuring elections and reforms align with global best practices.
- Legacy pressure: Can Dongban-Mensem’s legal acumen translate into effective club governance?
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