By Chimezie Godfrey
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) on Saturday, January 10, 2026, commemorated the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day with a colourful Golf Kitty held at the Tukur Yusuf Buratai International Golf Resort and Country Club, Yar’Adua Barracks, Asokoro, Abuja.
The golf tournament formed part of a series of activities lined up to honour serving personnel, military veterans, wounded-in-action troops, and fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price in the defence of Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Senior military officers, top defence stakeholders, and members of the golfing community participated in the event, which blended solemn remembrance with sportsmanship, unity, and camaraderie.
Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour, the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), described the Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day as a sacred national observance dedicated to recognising the courage and sacrifices of Nigeria’s military personnel.
General Musa stressed that the annual commemoration serves as a powerful reminder of the unwavering commitment of officers and men of the Armed Forces in safeguarding Nigeria’s peace, unity, and security across all theatres of operation.
According to the Defence Minister, sporting engagements such as the Golf Kitty align with the military’s emphasis on physical fitness, mental alertness, resilience, and operational readiness, while also strengthening bonds within the Armed Forces community.
He further noted that the tournament provided an avenue for officers and civilians to interact in a relaxed environment, thereby reinforcing esprit de corps and civil-military relations.
General Musa commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for his consistent support, strategic leadership, and commitment to improving the welfare and operational effectiveness of the Nigerian military.
In his remarks, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, praised officers and men of the Armed Forces for their professionalism, dedication, and sacrifices in ongoing efforts to secure the nation.
General Oluyede emphasized that the Remembrance Day offers Nigerians an opportunity to reflect on the bravery and selflessness of military personnel, past and present, while urging continued national support.
He described security as a collective responsibility and called for deeper civil-military cooperation and sustained unity to achieve lasting peace and stability.
Also speaking, the Captain of the TYB International Golf Resort and Country Club, Brigadier General Nicholas Ashinze, said the club was honoured to host the tournament, revealing that over 100 golfers participated.
The event featured award presentations, prizes for outstanding golfers, souvenir presentations, and group photographs, marking a fitting tribute to Nigeria’s fallen and serving heroes.
AFN Honours Fallen Heroes with Golf Kitty as Defence Minister Salutes Sacrifice
