The Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Maj.-Gen. Gold Chibuisi, says the Nigerian Army remains committed to strengthening civil-military relations through sporting and community-based initiatives.
Chibuisi stated this in Kano on Sunday during the inauguration of the renovated Hole Number 3 Tee Box at the Kano Golf Club, executed by Headquarters 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army.
He said the project was 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,” Chibuisi said.
According to him, the Kano Golf Club shares 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 reflects our commitment to sustaining this heritage while promoting peace, unity, and sportsmanship between our personnel and the golfing community,” he added.
The Chief of Civil-Military Affairs commended the Commander, 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.
Chibuisi reaffirmed the Army’s resolve to confront insecurity across the country, stressing that collective effort and community partnership remained vital to achieving lasting peace.
“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 urged citizens to continue supporting the military and other security agencies in their efforts to secure the nation and enhance socio-economic growth.
Earlier, Brig.-Gen. Tukur reiterated the brigade’s commitment to strengthening civil-military relations through non-kinetic initiatives, noting that the project underscores the Army’s broader civil-military cooperation objectives.
Also speaking, the Commander, Armed Forces Specialist Hospital, Kano, Col. Ishiaku Abdulkarim, highlighted the historical significance of the Kano Golf Club, established in 1908, making it the oldest and one of the most respected golf clubs in Nigeria and West Africa.
He said the club was founded following the conquest of Kano by the then Royal West African Frontier Force (RWAFF).
“Over the years, it has hosted several historic events, including the first Kano Golf Tournament organised by Barclays Bank—later Union Bank, the first commercial establishment in Kano—in 1922,” Abdulkarim said.
He added that the golf course also witnessed a milestone in Nigeria’s aviation history when Flight Lt. Cunningham flew from Helwan, Egypt, to Kano, marking the first aircraft landing in Nigeria on November 1, 1925.
“Prince Edward of England also visited the club in 1927 and reviewed a parade mounted by the RWAFF,” he noted.
The President of the Kano Golf Club, Alhaji Babangida Umar, described the renovation as a demonstration of the Army’s commitment to strengthening civil-military relations through community-oriented projects.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army also inaugurated a newly renovated Soldiers’ Club at the 3 Brigade, Bukavu Barracks, as part of efforts to improve soldiers’ welfare and morale.
