Governor Mohammed Bago of Niger State has applauded the organisers of the 12th Golf & Tour Charity Association Tournament for using sports as a vehicle for development and humanitarian service.
Speaking on the sidelines of the ceremonial tee-off of the tournament, the governor — represented by Yahaya Ibrahim, Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development — commended the initiative, saying it aligns with the state government’s agenda of uplifting the lives of the less privileged.
“Let me commend the organisers of this tournament for this initiative, which aims to make a positive impact on the lives of less privileged individuals through sports and charity,” Bago said.
“As soon as the governor got the invitation to attend this event, it was indeed a no-brainer for him, especially because of the tournament’s focus on supporting less privileged individuals.
“This is a charitable initiative which aligns with a key aspect of the Niger State government’s agenda.
“The importance of such events in promoting sports development in our state cannot be overemphasised as it showcases the potential for sports to drive positive change,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, Zubairu Kuta, Director-General to the Governor on NGOs and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), reiterated the administration’s commitment to supporting impactful initiatives.
Kuta noted that the tournament’s charitable thrust has the potential to make a lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable groups, stressing that the government remains a willing partner in progress for causes that benefit ordinary citizens.
In his remarks, Maj.-Gen. Kevin Aligbe, Commander of Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), and Grand Patron of the Minna Cantonment Golf Club, expressed gratitude to the organisers for bringing the tournament to Minna.
“The event brought life back to the club, which is usually serene and quiet,” Aligbe said, urging the organisers to consider making the Minna Cantonment Golf Club their new home.
Retired AVM C.E. Aroriode, Leader of the Golf & Tour Charity Association, emphasised the group’s mission to promote sports and give back to society.
“We are actually golfers who love charity and are always eager to touch lives. We don’t just play golf, but we make an impact and leave a legacy wherever we go,” he said.
“Yesterday, we were at an orphanage home where we made some donations. The idea is to touch lives of the less privileged wherever we go.
“We have been going round the country. We’ve been to Jos, Kano, Kaduna, Port Harcourt, Calabar, and Owerri, to mention a few.
“So, our mission basically is to give back while fellowshiping together and playing the game we love.”
Chairman of the 2025 Local Organising Committee, Retired Wing Commander Ibrahim Sarki, described the tournament as highly successful, noting that it drew over 150 golfers from across the country.
Retired Brig.-Gen. M.D. Onoyiveta, the Association’s Chief Coordinator, said the standard of the tournament continued to surpass expectations.
“The quality and standard of the tournament were top-notch, adding that the event was a world-class experience that continued to exceed all expectations,” he said.
Other dignitaries present included Group Capt. Kingsley Ajaero, Commander of Q13 Quick Response Force, Nigerian Air Force; Boboye Oyeyemi, Deputy Leader of the Association; and Maj.-Gen. Samson Jiya, Co-Chairman of the Minna LOC.
The 12th edition of the tournament was staged at the scenic Minna Cantonment Golf Club and kicked off on Friday with over 150 golfers vying for honours in various categories.
At the end of the competition, Makinde emerged winner of the top prize, finishing with a total gross of 171, playing off handicap 13 and returning a net score of 145.
