Senator Simon Bako Lalong, representing Plateau South Senatorial District and former Governor of Plateau State, was over the weekend honoured with a ceremonial golf kitty in celebration of his 62nd birthday. The event, held on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at the Lamingo Golf Club in Jos, was organized by the Plateau chapter of the Inside Life Golf Kitty Group.
Dignitaries, golf enthusiasts, and well-wishers gathered to celebrate the senator, describing him as a statesman, a promoter of peace, and a passionate advocate for the development of golf in Plateau State.
Although Senator Lalong’s birthday fell on May 5, he explained that festivities were postponed in respect of the passing of his former deputy governor. “I had no plans to celebrate this year, but Inside Life planned a surprise to honour me. I couldn’t say no,” Lalong said during the celebration, expressing gratitude to the organisers and the golfing community.
The senator described the occasion as one of personal reflection and appreciation, especially in light of recent losses. He praised the unifying nature of golf and recounted memorable experiences from his time as governor and a travelling golfer. One such anecdote was a humorous exchange with former U.S. President Donald Trump, who once proposed a friendly match at the White House after discovering their mutual interest in the sport.
“Golf is a unique game that unites people—even rivals. You can play with someone you disagreed with and later share a drink together,” Lalong said. He urged Plateau residents to embrace peace, stating, “When there’s peace, we can build more golf courses and create a thriving sporting culture that benefits all.”
As part of his remarks, the senator proposed the establishment of a special tournament trophy to honour veteran golfer Dara Sam Gyang, the oldest golfer in attendance, acknowledging his longstanding contributions to the sport.
Major General Oluwaseun Olayinka Oshinowo (rtd), Coordinator of the Inside Life Golf Group, described Senator Lalong as “not just a leader, but a legend of the game in Plateau,” commending his dedication to promoting golf and fostering unity.
Similarly, Sailas Vem, Captain of the Lamingo Golf Club, praised the former governor for his unwavering support and infrastructural contributions. “We are seated under this roof today because of your generosity and commitment to the game,” he said, noting that Lalong remains a life patron and a role model for younger players.
Other dignitaries in attendance included Chief Latep Dabang, Chairman of the Plateau Amateur Golfers Association (PAGA); Engr. Murphy Dogun, patron of the Lamingo Golf Club; and Brigadier General Gakji Shipi (rtd), Vice Chairman of PAGA. They all applauded Senator Lalong’s impact in public service and sports development.
The celebration concluded with the presentation of trophies to outstanding performers during the kitty, as well as special recognitions for notable figures in the Plateau golfing community.
Senator Lalong, a lawyer by profession and advocate of sports diplomacy, served as Governor of Plateau State from 2015 to 2023 and was appointed Minister of Labour and Employment in 2023. He currently represents Plateau South in the Nigerian Senate.
