Godwin Okoko Wins Maiden Professional Title at Sunshine Development Tour's Rift Valley Championship

Posted : 28 October 2026

Nigerian golfer Godwin Okoko has won his maiden professional title after triumphing at the Rift Valley Championship, the eighth leg of the Sunshine Development Tour's East Africa Swing.

Okoko delivered an impressive final round of five-under-par 68 to finish with a tournament total of 209. His performance secured a one-stroke victory over Kenya's Simon Njogu, who finished second on 210.

The Nigerian produced an impressive display of attacking golf to seal the title. His final-round scorecard featured six birdies on holes 3, 4, 6, 10, 11 and 17, alongside an eagle on the 16th hole. Despite dropping shots on holes 5, 8 and 12, he maintained his composure to finish ahead of the field.

The victory marked an important milestone in Okoko's professional career after a season of consistent performances. He said the result was a reward for the hard work he had invested throughout the campaign.

"I'm very happy to win my first title on the Sunshine Development Tour. I've been working hard throughout the season, and it feels good to see that effort pay off," Okoko said.

He added that the course presented several challenges but praised his ability to remain focused and take advantage of scoring opportunities. The victory has also boosted his confidence ahead of his return to Nigeria for the next tournament.

Okoko earned Ksh400,000 from the championship's Ksh2 million prize purse, alongside 210 Sunshine Development Tour Order of Merit points.

Njogu finished second on nine-under-par 210 after a strong final round. His card included birdies on holes 5, 8, 10, 11 and 16, while bogeys on holes 4 and 17 limited his challenge. He received Ksh214,000 and 172 Order of Merit points.

Overnight leader Edwin Mudanyi finished third on six-under-par 213 after a difficult start to his final round. Three early dropped shots put him under pressure, although he recovered with birdies on holes 6 and two more on the back nine. Consecutive bogeys on holes 14 and 15 ultimately ended his hopes of winning.

Dismas Indiza finished fourth on four-under-par 214, while Greg Snow of Muthaiga Golf Club placed fifth on four-under-par 215. John Kagiri completed the top six on one-under-par 218.

Sponsored by NCBA Bank, the Rift Valley Championship brought together professional golfers and elite amateurs from across East Africa. The tournament offered prize money and Order of Merit points, with eligible players also competing for world-ranking points.

The Sunshine Development Tour provides a pathway for golfers seeking to progress to the main Sunshine Tour. Okoko will now return to Nigeria for the Alpha Bravo Golf Classic, scheduled for November 18 to 21, 2026, at Lakowe Lakes Golf Estate.

Godwin Okoko Wins Maiden Professional Title at Sunshine Development Tour's Rift Valley Championship

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