Amina Samuel, Kaduna
KADUNA, Nov 14 (Reuters) – More than 300 amateur and veteran golfers are expected to participate in the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Christopher Musa National Peace and Unity Golf Tournament, scheduled to take place from November 15 to November 16, 2024, at the Kaduna Golf Club.
The tournament, which is aimed at promoting peace and unity in northern Nigeria and across the nation, will also support government efforts to address security challenges and foster a culture of peace.
During a press briefing on Thursday at the Kaduna Golf Club, Captain Ken Okonkwo, the club’s captain, explained that the event is organized to honor General Musa, who has championed the use of non-kinetic strategies for peacebuilding.
“This tournament is not just about golf; it’s about sending a message of peace,” Okonkwo said. “It is designed to support the government’s peace efforts and highlight the importance of unity in overcoming Nigeria’s current challenges.”
The competition will feature participants from over 30 golf clubs nationwide, with competitors vying for various prizes across different categories. The event kicks off on Friday, November 15, with amateur golfers in the handicap range of 19-28 competing.
On Saturday, November 16, General Musa will perform the ceremonial tee-off, and golfers with handicaps of 0-18, as well as veteran men and women, will compete for honors.
“We are expecting over 300 golfers, and we are confident it will be an exciting event,” Okonkwo added.
“Let this tournament be a platform to preach peace, as General Musa often says, ‘peace and unity are the only things that will bring progress to Nigeria in our present situation.’”
General Bala Isandu (retired), a representative of General Musa, highlighted the CDS’s commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence through sports. He noted that sports tournaments have been a key element in fostering military-civil relations and encouraging national unity.
“The media plays a crucial role in promoting peace, as it serves as a key source of information for the public,” Isandu said.
Abayomi Oyelola, Secretary of the Board of Trustees of the Kaduna Golf Club, also commended General Musa for choosing the Kaduna Golf Club as the venue for the tournament, describing it as one of the best golf courses in the country.
“We are grateful to the CDS for recognizing the Kaduna Golf Club and for choosing it to host this prestigious event in his home state,” Oyelola said.
In addition to the Peace and Unity Golf Tournament, the Kaduna Golf Club will host other major events, including the First Bank Golf Tournament on November 30, 2024, and the BOT Golf Open on December 7, 2024. The club will also hold the Ladies Open Tournament on January 9, 2025.
