*President Bola Ahmed Tinubu urges public and private sectors of the Nigerian economy to actively contribute to sports development, particularly in infrastructure expansion, talent identification, athlete nurturing, and sponsorship of sporting events

Alexander Davis | 绿帽献妻

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Tuesday, March 25, 2025, in Abuja, FCT, flagged off the Torch of Unity Movement for Nigeria’s 22nd National Sports Festival.

Tinubu, on the occasion, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting and providing an enabling environment for sports development in the country.

绿帽献妻 reports the sports festival tagged, “the Gateway Games”, holds from May 16 to May 30 this year, in Ogun State.

The Nigerian President also described sports as a unifying force and catalyst for youth engagement, national cohesion, and economic growth.

He, therefore, urged the public and private sectors of the economy to actively contribute to Nigerian sports development, particularly in infrastructure expansion, talent identification, athlete nurturing, and sponsorship of sporting events.

The Nigerian leader further said that enhanced collaboration is essential for advancing the country’s sporting potential, and ensuring Nigeria remains a dominant force in global sports.

He described the Torch of Unity as a symbol of peace, strength, and solidarity.

The Federal Government noted the Torch of Unity Movement would herald the festival by travelling through all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy Tuesday stated President Tinubu said: “Since the inception of the National Sports Festival in 1973, the games have been a veritable vehicle for the interaction and integration of our young sportsmen and women.

“This festival provides a platform for all states and the FCT to showcase their sporting prowess under healthy competition, sportsmanship and friendly interaction to enhance and strengthen national unity.”

The President stated: “The games represent much more than just a competition of athletic skill; they embody the unity, strength, and resilience that define us as a nation.

“Every step we take together towards the festival is not merely an act of preparation for a sporting event, but a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to national building through sports.”

The statement noted Tinubu equally recognised the contributions of Nigeria’s sporting legends and paid tribute to Olympic medalist and the National Torch Bearer, Falilat Ogunkoya.

The Nigerian President commended Ogunkoya’s dedication to promoting unity and sports excellence in Nigeria and Africa.

He also extended his best wishes to the Super Eagles of Nigeria in their FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifying match against Zimbabwe Warriors in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, later on Tuesday, expressing confidence in their ability to secure victory.

Speaking on the forthcoming sporting event, Governor Dapo Abiodun of State said the South-West state is fully prepared to host a world-class event, welcoming over 10,000 athletes in a festival designed to set new records.

The governor noted that elite Nigerian athletes, such as Anthony Joshua and Tobi Amusan, would grace the occasion.

It is noted this further reinforces Nigeria’s status as a global sporting powerhouse.

Abiodun said: “As Nelson Mandela once said, sports can change the world.

“They can inspire and unite people in a way that little else can.

“The Unity Torch, as it journeys across the Federation, is not merely a symbol of the forthcoming games but a reflection of our shared aspirations and collective identity.”

He further stated: “As the proud host of the 22nd National Sports Festival, we are not only ready to host over 10,000 athletes and officials but also to warmly welcome guests and supporters from every corner of the Federation.

“For the first time in the history of the National Sports Festival, all our athletes will be housed within a single purpose-built facility, ensuring comfort, convenience and camaraderie.”

He also explained: “Our sporting infrastructure meets international standards, and we have left no stone unturned in delivering a festival that will set new records in organisation, participation and excellence.

“Our facilities are ready, our people are enthusiastic, and our athletes are prepared to showcase the best Nigerian sporting talent to the world.”

Governor Abiodun as well thanked President Tinubu for ensuring peace in Nigeria.

He emphasised that “without peace, there will be no sports festival.”

Abiodun also commended the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, the National Sports Commission (NSC), the Nigerian Olympic Committee, and all stakeholders for their contributions to the success of the forthcoming festival.

In his remarks, Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the NSC, described the National Sports Festival as Nigeria’s version of the Olympics.

Dikko acknowledged that for the first time, the Commission has invited the best junior athletes in the country to participate under its sponsorship.

He disclosed the young athletes would compete under the Invited Junior Athletes (IJA) category, marking a historic inclusion in the festival.

The statement noted later at the forecourt of the Presidential Villa, the Deputy Governor of Delta State, Monday Onyeme, representing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, handed over the Festival Torch of Unity to the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko.

President Tinubu also received the Torch from Dikko, who in turn, passed it on to the Chairman of the Main Organizing Committee, Hon. Bukola Olopade, who then entrusted it to Falilat Ogunkoya, the National Torch Bearer, for its journey across the country.

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