Justice Dongban-Mensem Appointed Chairman of IBB Golf Club Board of Trustees by Wike

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has appointed the President of the Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, as the new Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja.
The inauguration of the newly constituted board took place on Friday at the Minister’s official residence in Life Camp. Justice Dongban-Mensem takes over from General I.B.M. Haruna, who previously served as Chairman of the Board.

Other members appointed to the Board include Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, Mrs Grace Ihonvbere, S.I. Ameh (SAN), Hamid Abbo, Admiral Victor Adedipe (rtd), Chief Patrick Chidolue, and Mr Ikokwu.
Meanwhile, former BoT members—Gen. Haruna, King Alfred Diete-Spiff, Dr. Tim Menakaya, and Ambassador Babagana Kingibe—will now serve as patrons of the club. Chief Philip Asiodu has been removed from the board.
During the inauguration, Minister Wike emphasized the FCT Administration’s resolve to restore order and efficiency to the IBB Golf Club, which he noted had recently been plagued by internal challenges.

“On behalf of the FCT Administration, I want to thank the newly inaugurated members of the Board for answering the call to service. There has been a crisis at the IBB Golf Club and, as the owners of the golf course, we cannot sit back and allow things to deteriorate further,” he stated.
The Minister tasked the new board with the urgent responsibility of organizing transparent Executive Committee elections, amending the club’s constitution, and ensuring proper registration in line with best practices.
He also addressed the ownership of the club, clarifying that despite the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), the property remains under the purview of the Federal Capital Territory Administration.

“Some believe that because a C of O has been issued, the club is no longer owned by the government. That’s incorrect. Just like we grant C of Os to institutions like the University of Abuja for administrative protection, ownership still resides with the government. The same applies here,” Wike explained.
He underscored the significance of appointing the President of the Court of Appeal to lead the BoT, noting that such a choice reflects the seriousness with which the FCT Administration views the matter.
“We are not taking this lightly. We will give the club all necessary support as long as we see genuine efforts toward progress,” he said.

Acknowledging the contributions of Gen. Haruna, the Minister commended his leadership and assured him that his service will not be forgotten
“Leadership comes with its trials, and we recognize what you’ve endured. The government appreciates your dedication and will continue to honor your contributions,” he added.
Justice Dongban-Mensem, in her acceptance remarks, expressed gratitude to the FCT Minister for swiftly intervening in the club’s challenges. She reaffirmed the new board’s commitment to upholding the club’s prestigious standing within the capital and beyond.
She praised the past leadership, particularly General Haruna, for their dedication, and assured that the new board will work to restore unity, stability, and integrity at the club.

“We have been given a weighty responsibility to oversee this club, and we understand the importance the government places on it. We will not disappoint. We are committed to reconciling differences and fostering unity,” she said.
Justice Dongban-Mensem also emphasized the value of collaboration among board members and encouraged continued guidance from past leaders. She called for teamwork and cooperation in steering the club forward, while promising prudent management of its resources.
“I appeal to all my colleagues on the board to work together in harmony. I also call on our predecessors to support us with their wisdom and experience. Let’s unite and elevate the club to new heights,” she concluded.
With a renewed sense of purpose and commitment, the new leadership is set to restore the IBB International Golf and Country Club to its esteemed position as a premier recreational and social hub, both locally and internationally.