Prof. Christopher Yilgwan’s 50th Birthday Ceremonial Golf Event Attracts Over 150 Golfers from Nigeria to Lamingo Golf Club

The Chief Medical Director of Plateau State Specialist Hospital, Jos, Professor Christopher Sabo Yilgwan, on Saturday, 10th January, 2026, celebrated his 50th birthday with a colourful golf kitty tournament at the Lamingo Golf Club, Jos.

The milestone celebration featured a ceremonial tee-off that attracted friends, colleagues, and golf enthusiasts from across the country, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie marked by swings, smiles, and goodwill.

In his opening remarks, the Captain of Lamingo Golf Club, Mr. Silas Vem, congratulated Professor Yilgwan on attaining the golden age of 50, noting that celebrating the occasion on the golf course underscored his passion for fitness and healthy living.

Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Baamlong, congratulated the celebrant on the milestone, commending his exemplary leadership at the Plateau State Specialist Hospital. He lauded Yilgwan’s commitment to service, which he said was evident in the large turnout of hospital staff and well-wishers at the celebration, and prayed for continued wisdom and strength.

In his response, Professor Yilgwan expressed deep appreciation to all who honoured him with their presence, describing the gathering as humbling and memorable.

Following the rendition of the birthday song, the celebrant officially kicked off the tournament. Other dignitaries who took turns at the tee-off included the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nicholas Baamlong; Dr. Kefas Zawaya; Mr. Jacob Dung, Director of Administration, Plateau State Specialist Hospital; Dr. Williams Golit, Chairman of the Planning Committee; Arc. Suleiman Umar, representing KOSA; and Hadassah Yilgwan, representing the Academy.
Several teams participated in the tournament, engaging in hours of competitive yet friendly play.

At the end of the tournament, golfers, guests, and well-wishers were treated to a reception at the Lamingo Golf Club House, where goodwill messages were delivered by the Club Captain, friends, and family members.

Speaking on behalf of the Lamingo Golf Club, Mr. Silas Vem once again congratulated Professor Yilgwan, urging him to continue making well-thought-out decisions befitting his wealth of experience.

On behalf of the family, Chief Robert Taple described the celebrant as an icon in Mupun land, expressing pride in his achievements and praying for good health and long life. Representing friends, Dr. Kefas Zawaya eulogised Professor Yilgwan as a reliable and dependable individual.

High points of the celebration included the presentation of gifts and trophies to deserving professional and amateur golfers who distinguished themselves during the tournament. This was followed by the cutting of the 50th birthday cake, photographs, dancing, and merriment.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, the Sports Committee of Plateau State Specialist Hospital presented an Award of Excellence to Professor Yilgwan for his sportsmanship and transformational leadership at the hospital.

In his closing remarks, Professor Yilgwan expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who celebrated with him, praying for God’s blessings upon everyone.

The programme concluded with a closing prayer, after which dignitaries continued networking, dancing, and exchanging pleasantries.