Lady Captain of the Ladies Subsection of Ikoyi Club 1938, Peggy Onwu, has concluded her tenure as the 2025–2026 golfing year draws to a close, capping what members described as an impactful administration driven by environmental sustainability, youth development and increased women’s participation in golf under her ‘Go Beyond’ theme.
Speaking at the end-of-year tournament tagged ‘Peggy’s Final’, held recently at the club, Onwu said the event symbolised a fitting conclusion to a year defined by progress and purposeful engagement within and beyond the golfing community.
“It has been another brilliant day and we are extremely grateful. We had good weather and great company. Today marks the end of this golfing year, and it has been a year of going beyond just playing golf,” she said.
Onwu noted that her administration placed strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and climate change awareness, introducing eco-friendly initiatives around the golf course and in neighbouring communities.
According to her, golfers typically spend three to four hours on the course and require hydration, which often results in plastic waste. To tackle this, the Ladies Subsection installed waste receptacles across the course to promote cleanliness and responsible waste disposal.
She added that the environmental advocacy extended beyond the club through climate sensitisation campaigns and tree-planting exercises in nearby schools.
“We visited schools around us, carried out climate awareness programmes and encouraged each child to plant and adopt a tree. The idea is that they will return in the future and be inspired by the environment they helped nurture,” she said.
Onwu also highlighted efforts to boost members’ financial literacy through enlightenment sessions on tax reforms and digital banking, noting that the initiative improved members’ understanding of safe and efficient financial transactions.
A major milestone of her tenure, she said, was the hosting of the 50th Ladies Open tournament at Ikoyi Club 1938, which attracted participants from 12 countries.
“It was a landmark event and a beautiful celebration of 50 years of ladies’ participation in the tournament,” she said.
Looking ahead, Onwu disclosed plans to sustain youth development through the establishment of a golf training academy for girls aged five to 18, stressing that the sport plays a vital role in mental development, focus, strategy and confidence building.
“We want young girls to grow into confident individuals who can make independent decisions and compete globally. Golf is a complete developmental tool that builds both physical fitness and mental strength,” she added.
A member of the club, Aditya Raj, commended Onwu’s leadership, describing her as one of the most impactful Lady Captains in the club’s history.
“This tournament celebrating Peggy’s finale is always special. She has done extremely well and inspired many golfers,” he said.
Raj emphasised the need to encourage young people to embrace golf, noting that the club’s central location in Lagos makes it accessible to aspiring players.
“We encourage children, especially during school holidays, to take advantage of the facilities here. With professional coaches available, starting early helps them develop into excellent players,” he added.
Also speaking, former Lady Captain, Dr. (Mrs.) Angela Adegboyega, described Onwu’s tenure as transformational and forward-looking, noting that her initiatives elevated performance and strengthened camaraderie among members.
“She encouraged members to go beyond their limits and introduced programmes such as inviting international professional golfers to enhance performance. Her environmental initiative also significantly reduced plastic pollution within the club,” Adegboyega said.
She further praised Onwu’s commitment to youth development, recalling her role in organising national children’s golf tournaments that boosted awareness and participation among young players.
“Introducing sports like golf at an early age supports academic growth, career development and personal discipline. Peggy has made remarkable contributions to youth participation in golf,” she said.
Members unanimously described Onwu’s tenure as one that deepened sports development, promoted environmental responsibility and strengthened community engagement, leaving a lasting legacy within the Ladies Subsection of Ikoyi Club 1938.
