As part of activities lined up to mark the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day 2026, the Defence Headquarters on Friday organised a special Golf Kitty Tournament in Abuja, bringing together senior military officers, stakeholders, and members of the golfing community in a show of unity and remembrance.
Addressing personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and participants at the event, the Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa, said the annual remembrance period is dedicated to honouring serving personnel, remembering fallen heroes, and acknowledging those injured in the line of duty.
Speaking at the TYB International Resort and Country Club, he explained that the occasion provides an opportunity to celebrate the living, pay tribute to the fallen, and ensure that the sacrifices of military personnel are never forgotten.
He added that the Armed Forces also deeply appreciate the families of departed personnel, whose support and resilience remain invaluable, reassuring Nigerians that the military stands united with the people.
General Musa further highlighted the importance of sports, particularly golf, in promoting healthy living, physical fitness, and camaraderie within the Armed Forces.
He described the tournament as part of the military’s broader commitment to wellness and teamwork, noting that it also offers a platform for interaction among stakeholders and helps to strengthen bonds of unity and cooperation across the country.
In his remarks, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Olufemi Oluyede, said the Golf Kitty Tournament was organised to encourage social interaction and partnership among stakeholders while celebrating members of the Armed Forces who continue to make sacrifices for national peace and security.
He commended the President for his consistent support and encouragement of the Armed Forces, describing it as critical to ongoing security efforts. The CDS warned Nigerians against supporting bandits, terrorists, and other criminal elements, urging citizens to provide timely and credible information to security agencies, while assuring that the Armed Forces remain ready to respond decisively.
General Oluyede expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their continued support, stressing that security is everybody’s responsibility. While acknowledging the cooperation received so far, he noted that greater public support is required to fully achieve national security objectives.
He reaffirmed his respect for military personnel who daily risk their lives so others can live in peace, assuring that efforts would continue to improve their welfare and operational effectiveness.
Similarly, Brig General Nicholas Ashinze, Captain of the TYB International Resort and Country Golf Club, disclosed that no fewer than 100 golfers participated in the tournament. He described the event as a symbolic gesture by the Special Guest of Honour to officially declare the competition open, noting that a standard round of play would last about four hours and culminate in an evening presentation ceremony.
Brigadier General Ashinze added that several activities have been lined up for this year’s Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, describing the inclusion of the golfing community as a privilege.
He explained that the tournament teed off at 6:30 a.m., marking the formal commencement of the day’s activities, and noted that a major highlight of the programme was the ceremonial tee-off, which officially signalled the start of play and symbolised unity, sportsmanship, and a shared commitment to national remembrance and support for the Armed Forces.
