By Nkechi Eze
The Golf and Tour Charity Association of Nigeria (GTCAN) on Friday, 30th May 2025, paid a courtesy visit to the Commander, Training and Doctrine Command Nigerian Army (TRADOC NA), Major General Kevin Aligbe, to express appreciation for the Nigerian Army’s support in hosting the 12th Series of the Association’s annual charity golf tournament.
The tournament, which is being held at the Minna Cantonment Golf Club in Niger State, marks another milestone in GTCAN’s sustained efforts to promote unity, social engagement, and development through golf.
According to an official signed statement made by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Training and Doctrine Command, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, the visiting delegation was led by the Executive Chairman of the Association, Air Vice Marshal Clement Aroriode (Retired).
Speaking during the visit, AVM Aroriode (Retired) expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Nigerian Army and Major General Aligbe for the generous support and logistical backing extended to the Association during the planning and execution of the tournament.
“We are sincerely grateful to TRADOC for the enabling environment provided throughout the planning stages. The success of the 2025 edition is largely due to the unwavering support of the Nigerian Army under your capable leadership,” Aroriode stated.
He further noted that the Association, which began its charitable golf initiative twelve years ago, has held the tournament across twelve states of the federation, with each edition dedicated to supporting vulnerable groups and community-based development.
According to AVM Aroriode, the choice of Minna as the host city for the 2025 edition was informed by the strategic importance of the town and the invaluable role TRADOC plays in the Nigerian Army’s doctrinal and training architecture.
In his response, the Commander TRADOC NA, Major General Kevin Aligbe, thanked the Association for selecting the Minna Cantonment Golf Club as the venue for the prestigious tournament. He described the gesture as an honour and assured the Association of TRADOC’s continued support throughout the duration of the event.
Reflecting on his personal connection with the Association, Maj Gen Aligbe acknowledged the impact of some of its executive members in shaping his military journey, both during his cadet days at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) and throughout his career in the Nigerian Army.
“The presence of GTCAN here today brings back fond memories of mentorship and professional guidance I received from many of your members. It is indeed a privilege to now host this event under my command,” he said.
The Golf and Tour Charity Association of Nigeria is a non-profit organisation with membership drawn from retired and serving military and paramilitary personnel, as well as civilian professionals. Through its charity golf tournaments, the Association contributes to the welfare of military and civilian golfers’ families, while supporting broader social causes.
Highlights of the courtesy visit included the presentation of a souvenir to the Commander, the signing of the visitors’ register, and a group photograph to commemorate the occasion.
