Stakeholders at the Peace and Unity Golf Tournament have commended Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, for his visionary leadership and commitment to peace building and unity through sports programmes aimed at fostering harmony across the state.

The stakeholders made the commendations during the ceremonial tee-off of the competition at the Rayfield Golf Course in Jos.

Speaking on behalf of the Chairman, Board of Trustees, Senator Simon Bako Lalong thanked the governor for endorsing the event, describing golf as a powerful unifying force capable of bridging divides among Nigerians.

He said: “My passion has always been about golf, and it remains one sport that naturally brings people together across Nigeria.”

He explained that the concept of the Unity Cup was conceived as a platform to strengthen cohesion and promote peaceful coexistence within the state, appealing further for the tournament to be institutionalized as an annual event, noting that it would serve as a constant reminder of the importance of unity on the Plateau.

He also commended Mutfwang’s prompt and decisive response to recent security challenges, which he said has reassured residents and visitors alike. “Golfers are here enjoying Jos, courtesy of the Governor of Plateau State,” he said, emphasising that Plateau remains peaceful despite contrary narratives.

Earlier, the Captain of the Rayfield Golf Club, Isaac Ige, highlighted the rich historical significance of the facility established in 1913, describing it as one of the oldest golf clubs in Nigeria with notable international recognition.

He noted that the club’s legacy presents a unique opportunity to boost tourism and position Plateau State as a destination of global appeal.

Ige acknowledged the governor’s efforts in promoting peace through non-kinetic approaches, particularly the use of sports as a tool for social cohesion.

“His Excellency has leveraged sports as a non-kinetic strategy for peace building. It is for this reason that this tournament is aptly named the Peace and Unity Golf Tournament,” he said.

The captain appealed for government support to upgrade the club’s facilities to meet international standards, pointing out that critical infrastructure, including the clubhouse, car park and other amenities, require urgent attention.

“We cannot preserve such a rich history and allow the facility to remain in its current state. We appeal to the government to assist in transforming it into a world-class facility,” he added.