The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has praised Major General Godwin Umelo (Rtd) for his dedication and service to the nation.
Musa made the remarks during the tee-off ceremony of a golf tournament held in honour of Umelo’s 60th birthday at the TYB International Golf Resort and Country Club in Abuja.
The CDS lauded the celebrant, asserting that he is deserving of the accolades and celebrations for his unwavering commitment to the nation. “My friend and brother turning 60 today is a joyful occasion. He has been a mentor to us at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), where we have always looked up to him,” Musa reflected.
He reminisced about their enduring friendship since joining the NDA in 1985 and 1986, respectively, stating, “He is indeed a remarkable individual. He means so much to many people, and that’s why I chose to be here to celebrate this great man.”
Musa highlighted Umelo’s significant contributions to the Nigerian Armed Forces and his ongoing commitment to the nation. “This celebration is the least we can do for him as we thank God for his life and wish him well in his future endeavours,” he added.
The CDS noted that using golf as a means of celebration signifies unity, emphasising the Armed Forces’ commitment to fostering national unity. “We want to unite Nigeria and help our citizens understand that we live in a great country. We must love Nigeria more. Our challenges stem from a few individuals who wish to see us divided, but we will not allow them that opportunity. Together, united, we are stronger, better, and greater,” he concluded.
Major General Samson Jiya, the Captain of the club, who was represented by Vice Captain Ali Peters, expressed gratitude to Umelo on behalf of the club’s patrons and members.
He acknowledged Umelo’s significant contributions to the club’s growth and development, stating, “On behalf of our patrons, we thank the celebrant for his influential role in the club’s advancement.”
Maureen Apute, the Lady Captain of the club, paid tribute to General Umelo, praising his exceptional qualities and impact. “Gen. Umelo is ‘the father of all,’ as I like to call him. He is a great philanthropist and the patron of the TYB ladies section. Being around him transforms you,” she remarked.
Suleiman Abdul, chairman of the local organising Committee, highlighted Umelo’s remarkable personality and humanitarian efforts, noting, “He is a cheerful and humorous individual, always with a positive attitude. We felt the need to celebrate him significantly, especially this year as he turns 60.”
Umelo expressed heartfelt gratitude to all attendees, stating, “For the first time in my life, I am so emotional. I never expected such a huge turnout, even with the CDS here to honour me. I may be 60 on paper, but by the grace of God, I feel like I’m still 50.”
He acknowledged the significance of reaching this milestone and thanked everyone for celebrating with him. “I pray that you will all be celebrated in your time,” he added.
The tournament, which ran from Wednesday to Saturday, culminated in Dennis Dilli being declared the overall winner. Dilli, who played off handicap 24, achieved a gross score of 88 and 64 net over 18 holes. He expressed his delight at the victory, stating, “This win is special as it is my first tournament victory. Consistency and integrity were key to my success.”
He encouraged others to continue participating in tournaments and thanked the organisers for their efforts, noting that Umelo’s goodwill attracted many to the event.
As part of the celebrations, the CDS, General CG Musa, commissioned a comfort and relaxation station named “the Ahamuefula Gazebo,” located at the tee-off area of the TYB International Golf course.