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Olugbemi. Adeyinka Ogunleye
2 weeks ago
Overview
Nigerian Army reaffirms commitment to civil-military relations through Golf
The Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Maj.-Gen. Gold Chibuisi, has reiterated the Nigerian Army’s commitment to strengthening civil-military relations through sports and community-based initiatives. Chibuisi made this known on Sunday in Kano during the inauguration of the renovated Hole Number 3 Tee Box at the Kano Golf Club, a project executed by the Headquarters 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army.
He explained that the initiative forms part of the Army’s non-kinetic approach to operations, aimed at fostering mutual trust, understanding, and collaboration between the military and host communities. “The Nigerian military has always maintained a strong affinity with the game of golf, and it is common to see golf courses within our military formations nationwide,” he said.
Chibuisi noted that the Kano Golf Club has a long-standing historical relationship with the Nigerian Army, dating back to the pre-colonial era. “The renovation of this tee box by Headquarters 3 Brigade is a reflection of our commitment to sustaining this heritage while promoting peace, unity, and sportsmanship between our personnel and the golfing community,” he added. He commended the Commander of 3 Brigade, Brig.-Gen. Ahmed Tukur, for his leadership and foresight in initiating the project, describing it as a laudable effort that further strengthens civil-military cooperation.
Reaffirming the Army’s resolve to address insecurity across the country, Chibuisi stressed that lasting peace requires collective effort and community partnership. “The Nigerian Army is fully committed to discharging its constitutional duties, but lasting peace can only be achieved with the cooperation of all well-meaning Nigerians,” he said. He also urged citizens to continue supporting the military and other security agencies in their efforts to safeguard the nation and promote socio-economic development.
Earlier, Brig.-Gen. Ahmed Tukur, Commander of 3 Brigade, restated the brigade’s commitment to enhancing civil-military relations through non-kinetic initiatives that foster harmony with host communities. Similarly, Col. Ishiaku Abdulkarim, Commander of the Armed Forces Specialist Hospital, Kano, highlighted the historic significance of the Kano Golf Club, established in 1908, making it the oldest golf club in Nigeria and West Africa.
He noted that the club has hosted numerous historic events, including the first Kano Golf Tournament organized by Barclays Bank (now Union Bank) in 1922, and Nigeria’s first recorded aircraft landing on November 1, 1925, when Flight Lt. Cunningham flew from Helwan, Egypt, to Kano. “It may also interest you to know that Prince Edward of England visited the club and reviewed a troops parade mounted by the RWAFF in 1927,” he added.
Alhaji Babangida Umar, President of the Kano Golf Club, commended the Nigerian Army for the gesture, describing it as a clear demonstration of its commitment to community development and peaceful coexistence.
In addition to the golf course renovation, the Army also inaugurated a newly renovated Soldiers’ Club at 3 Brigade, Bukavu Barracks, as part of ongoing efforts to improve welfare and morale among personnel.
Credit: Daily Trust
