"Once a Guide, Always a Guide – A Promise for Life"
A Sisterhood Beyond the Uniform
For every woman who has ever tied a Guide’s knot, sung around a campfire, or lived by the Promise, the journey never truly ends. The Trefoil Guild Nigeria is where the spirit of Guiding finds its forever home—a sanctuary for those who carry the trefoil in their hearts long after the uniform has been set aside.
We are the Adult Guides, the torchbearers of a legacy, the quiet force that keeps the flame alive. Whether you were a Brownie with boundless curiosity, a Guide with a thirst for adventure, a Ranger breaking barriers, or a Leader shaping young minds—this is where your story continues.
Our Essence: The Heartbeat of Guiding
A Self-Sustaining Legacy
The Trefoil Guild stands as a self-governing and self-financing body, proudly supporting adult members of the Nigerian Girl Guides Association across all states. Though independent in operation, we remain woven into the fabric of Guiding, bound by the same timeless principles that have guided generations.
A Historic Inauguration
In October 2022, under the golden skies of Lagos, a new chapter began. With the blessing of Deaconess Rhoda Thomas, the Chief Commissioner of the Nigerian Girl Guides Association, the Trefoil Guild Nigeria was formally inaugurated—a moment that echoed the resilience and passion of women who refuse to let the Guiding light dim.
The Greeting That Unites Us
"Once a Guide, Always a Guide."
These words are more than a greeting—they are a sacred vow, a whisper from our past selves reminding us that the values we learned as girls remain our compass for life.
Why We Exist: The Pillars of Our Purpose
1. To Uphold the Promise
Every member of the Trefoil Guild is a living testament to the Guide Law. We do not simply remember the Promise—we breathe it into action, ensuring its wisdom shapes our lives and communities.
2. To Serve with Silent Strength
While the younger Guides march in uniform, we work behind the scenes—mentoring, fundraising, advocating—so that the Movement flourishes for generations yet to come.
3. To Build Unbreakable Bonds
Here, friendships forged in campfires and service projects deepen into lifelong sisterhood. The Trefoil Guild is a haven where stories are shared, wisdom is passed down, and laughter never fades.
4. To Light the Way Forward
We are the bridge between Guiding’s storied past and its vibrant future. Through community projects, leadership programs, and outreach, we ensure the flame never flickers.
A Journey Through Time: Our Glorious History
From Crystal Palace to Nigeria’s Shores
- 1909 – Brave girls demanded a place in Scouting, sparking a revolution.
- 1943 – The Trefoil Guild was born in the UK, giving former Guides a forever home.
- 1980s-90s – The seeds were planted in Nigeria, quietly growing into a mighty oak.
- 2022 – A landmark year:
- Nigeria’s first national Trefoil event, "Trefoil Flame Ignite", set hearts ablaze.
- The NGGA Trefoil Guild Handbook was unveiled, a blueprint for our future.
A Constitution of Commitment
Guided by the principles and policies of the Girl Guides Association, we stand as an integral part of the global Guiding family, united across borders by a shared promise.
Why You Belong Here
For the Former Guide Who Misses the Campfire Chats
You may have left the uniform behind, but the adventure never ends. Here, you’ll find the same spirit, the same laughter, the same sense of purpose—just with more life experience (and perhaps better coffee).
For the Woman Who Wants to Make a Difference
Whether through community service, mentorship, or fundraising, your skills and passion have a home here.
For Those Who Still Feel the Call of the Trefoil
That tug in your heart when you hear the Guide anthem? That’s Guiding’s heartbeat, and it never truly fades.
The Future We Are Crafting
We dream of:
🌿 A Guild in every state, a network of women lighting up Nigeria.
🌿 Intergenerational mentorship, where wisdom flows both ways.
🌿 Sustainable projects that leave footprints of kindness across communities.
Join Us: The Fire Awaits
If your soul still stirs at the sound of the Guide motto, if you believe in service, sisterhood, and quiet strength, then take our hand. The Trefoil Guild is not just a group—it’s a way of life.
"The world needs Guiding now more than ever. And Guiding needs you."
Reconnect. Reignite. Rise.
"We are the keepers of the flame. And the flame burns eternal."
✨ Once a Guide, Always a Guide. ✨
Trefoil Guild Nigeria: Keepers of the Guiding Flame
"Once a Guide, Always a Guide – A Promise for Life"
Our Glorious Timeline: A Century of Guiding Legacy
The Global Roots (1909-1943)
1909: Brave girls demand inclusion at the first Boy Scout Rally at Crystal Palace, London
1910: Official formation of the Girl Guides Association
1920: Former Guides begin forming unofficial "Old Guide" groups
1935: 'Old Guides' organisation formally established
1943: Official birth of the Trefoil Guild under the Girl Guides Association
Building the Foundation (1947-1966)
1947: First Trefoil Guilds officially registered
1952: Gains recognition as self-governing, self-financing body
1954: First Constitution ratified; becomes fully independent
1966: Nigerian Girl Guides Association joins as full WAGGGS member
The Nigerian Chapter (1980-Present)
1980s: Trefoil Guild quietly established in Nigeria
1993: Celebrates Golden Jubilee (50 years) internationally
2022 Historic Year for Nigeria:
- October: Formal inauguration in Lagos under Chief Commissioner Deaconess Rhoda Thomas
- First national event "Trefoil Flame Ignite" held
- NGGA Trefoil Guild Handbook launched
2023: Celebrated 80 years of global Trefoil Guild
Who We Are: The Eternal Guides
We are the Adult Guides - women who carry the Guiding spirit as a lifelong torch. Whether you wore the uniform for years or simply believe in our values, this is where belonging never ends.
"Our greeting, 'Once a Guide, Always a Guide,' isn't just a phrase - it's the heartbeat of our sisterhood."
Why We Exist
✨ Three Sacred Pillars:
- Keep the Promise Alive - Living the Guide Law in daily life
- Support Active Guiding - Mentoring, fundraising, advocating
- Build Forever Bonds - Creating intergenerational sisterhood
