Governor Mohammed Bago of Niger State has commended the organisers of the 12th Golf & Tour Charity Association Tournament for their contribution to sports development and charitable initiatives.
The governor’s message of appreciation was delivered on the sidelines of the ceremonial tee-off by Yahaya Ibrahim, the state’s Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development.
Governor Bago praised the organisers for their dedication, noting the significance of the tournament in advancing both sports and charitable causes within the state.
“I must commend the organisers for this commendable initiative, which seeks to positively impact the lives of underprivileged individuals through sport and charity.
“Upon receiving the invitation, the governor did not hesitate to support this tournament, especially due to its focus on uplifting the less privileged.
“This aligns with a core aspect of the Niger State Government’s agenda,” Ibrahim said.
He added that such events played a vital role in promoting sports development and social inclusion across the state.
Zubairu Kuta, the Director-General to the Governor on NGOs and Civil Society Organisations, also spoke at the event, describing the tournament as a meaningful endeavour with the potential to make a lasting impact. He reiterated the government’s willingness to support initiatives that positively touch the lives of ordinary citizens.
Major General Kevin Aligbe, Commander of the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) and Grand Patron of the Minna Cantonment Golf Club, expressed his gratitude to the organisers for selecting Minna as host city. He noted that the event revitalised the golf club and welcomed future collaborations.
“We invite the organisers to consider Minna Cantonment Golf Club their new home. We are fully prepared to host more tournaments,” Aligbe said.
Retired Air Vice Marshal CE Aroriode, Leader of the Golf & Tour Charity Association, reiterated the group’s commitment to promoting golf and charitable giving nationwide. He highlighted the tournament’s philanthropic focus, which includes donations to orphanages and outreach efforts across several states.
“We are golfers who care deeply about charity. Beyond playing, we strive to leave a positive impact and lasting legacy wherever we go,” Aroriode stated.
Retired Wing Commander Ibrahim Sarki, Chairman of the Minna 2025 Local Organising Committee, noted that this year’s tournament attracted over 150 golfers from across the country.
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Retired Brigadier General MD Onoyiveta, Chief Coordinator of the association, described the event as world-class, praising its quality and standard.
Among the dignitaries present at the tee-off ceremony were Group Captain Kingsley Ajaero, Commander of the Q13 Quick Response Force (Nigerian Air Force), Boboye Oyeyemi, Deputy Leader of the Association, and Major General Samson Jiya, Co-Chairman of the Minna LOC.
The tournament, which is held twice annually, took place on the lush grounds of the Minna Cantonment Golf Club and featured over 150 competitors across various categories.
At the end of the competition, golfer Makinde emerged champion, carding a gross score of 171 off a handicap of 13 and returning a net score of 145.
