National Defence College Honors Gen. Umelo with Retirement Kitty
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has expressed admiration for the distinguished career of retired Maj.-Gen. Godwin Umelo at an 18-hole Retirement Kitty held in his honour at the TYB International Golf Resort and Country Club in Abuja on Sunday.
Gen. Christopher Musa praised Maj.-Gen. Umelo’s 41 years of service in the Nigerian Army, stating, “We are here to celebrate one of our own Maj.-Gen. Umelo; it’s extremely very exciting and it shows the kind of person he is. It is not everyone that will celebrate that you would have this kind of crowd.”
The CDS acknowledged the significance of the retirement ceremony, emphasizing that Umelo’s service to humanity and the Armed Forces deserved recognition.
Gen. Musa also urged continued prayers for the security and peace of the nation, addressing the recent bomb blast in Kaduna as a mistake and unintentional.
Golfer and friend of the celebrant, Ali Peters, noted Umelo’s significant contributions to the TYB International Golf Resort and Country Club, calling him a complete gentleman, a fine officer, and an average golfer. The Vice Captain of the Club, Ali Peters, expressed gratitude for Umelo’s support and celebrated his retirement with a special event.
Ekanem Ekwueme, a trustee for the West and Central Africa region of the All Africa Challenge Trophy Association, regarded Umelo as a father figure and commended his role in her election. Golfer from Uganda, Robert Kamakech, described Umelo as a jolly good fellow, passionate about golf, with a great heart and love for people.
Sandra Komakech, the Vice Lady Captain from Uganda, acknowledged Gen. Umelo as a driving force at the TYB Club and an amazing human being, while golfer Dr E.S.K Makinde emphasized the positive impact of golf in fostering friendships.
The retirement ceremony featured a golf tournament, where Oluwatosin Ilori emerged as the champion with the best nett, and Saturday Otubor won the prize for the overall best gross. Maj.-Gen. E.N. Salami received the best nett award in the retired military personnel category.
The event celebrated not only the conclusion of Maj.-Gen. Umelo’s remarkable military career but also the camaraderie and friendships cultivated on the golf course.
