The Rayfield Golf Club 1913 in Jos came alive with excitement as golfers, government officials, family members, friends, and well-wishers gathered to celebrate the 60th birthday of the Special Adviser on Security and Homeland Safety to the Plateau State Governor and Acting Coordinator of Operation Rainbow, Brig. Gen. Gakji Shipi (Rtd.), through a week-long golf kitty tournament.
The special birthday kitty, organised in honour of the retired military officer, commenced on Monday, June 22, with the caddies’ competition, followed by the professionals’ event on Wednesday, June 24. The tournament concluded with competitions in the men’s and ladies’ categories, veterans’ events, and a grand closing ceremony on Sunday, June 28.
The week-long competition attracted golfers from different parts of Nigeria to the historic Rayfield Golf Club, one of the country’s oldest golf courses, creating an atmosphere of sportsmanship and celebration.
Speaking during the closing ceremony, Brig. Gen. Shipi described his 60th birthday as a significant milestone and said the celebration was purely an act of thanksgiving to God for preserving his life.
He noted that 60 years traditionally marks the retirement age in the civil service, adding that although he retired from military service earlier, he has remained actively engaged in public service.
Reflecting on his journey, Shipi expressed gratitude to God for granting him good health and the opportunity to witness the milestone, noting that many of his colleagues and contemporaries were no longer alive.
He dismissed suggestions that the celebration carried any political undertone, insisting that it was solely organised to appreciate God’s faithfulness throughout his life.
“I am not in competition with anyone. This celebration is simply about thanking God Almighty for His mercy and kindness. Anyone with a different opinion is entitled to it,” he said.
The retired general also thanked participants who travelled from different parts of the country to celebrate with him and reiterated his commitment to positively impacting the lives of people around him.
He commended the organising committee for successfully delivering the week-long tournament despite limited time and resources and expressed appreciation to golfers for making the event memorable.
Shipi also jokingly told the veterans that he would continue competing in the regular category until the age of 65 before joining the veterans’ division.
Among those who paid glowing tributes was Dr. Lami Olayi Ahmed, the president of lady golfers association of Nigeria, who described the celebrant as an icon, mentor, and dependable supporter of the golfing community, especially women golfers.
She said she travelled from Abuja to honour him because of his generosity, humility, and unwavering support for people whenever called upon.
Captain of Rayfield Golf Club, Jacob Gabriel Malo, praised Shipi for his outstanding support for the club and the golfing community.
According to him, the retired general’s generosity and commitment have distinguished him among his peers, expressing hope that the celebration would further strengthen unity among golfers across the country.
Also speaking, Maj. Gen. Olayinka Oshinowo (Rtd.) described Shipi as a friend, colleague, and brother, praying for continued good health, long life, and greater accomplishments as he advances in age.
Lady Captain of Rayfield Golf Club, Grace Alhari, described the celebrant as “a man with a heart of gold,” noting that he has positively impacted countless lives since arriving on the Plateau.
General Manager of the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB), Hart Bankat, said Shipi has remained a father figure, mentor, and consistent supporter of the golfing community, wishing him continued prosperity and fulfilment.
Similarly, Pharm. John Chun described the retired general as a brother, friend, father, and dedicated public servant who has served both Nigeria and Plateau State with distinction. He prayed for greater accomplishments in the years ahead.
Other guests also praised Shipi’s humility, generosity, and commitment to service, describing him as an inspirational leader whose contributions have touched many lives.
The celebration climaxed with the presentation of trophies, medals, and gift items to outstanding performers in the various tournament categories, amid cheers and goodwill messages in honour of the celebrant.
The colourful event once again highlighted the strong sense of camaraderie within Nigeria’s golfing community while celebrating the life and service of one of Plateau State’s distinguished public servants at the nation’s oldest golf clubs.
