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President Bola Tinubu officially launched the unity movement torch for the 22nd National Sports Festival (Gateway Games) on Tuesday in Abuja, emphasizing the unwavering commitment of its administration to promote sports development in Nigeria.
The festival will take place in the state of Ogun from May 16 to 30, 2025.
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Highlighting the unifying power of sports, Tinubu described it as a key driver of youth participation, national cohesion and economic growth. He urged the public and private sectors to invest in the development of sports infrastructure, the discovery of talents, the athlete tutoring and the sponsorship of sporting events, which emphasizes that collaboration is essential to raise Nigeria’s global sports presence.
The unity torch, symbolizing peace, strength and solidarity, will travel through the 36 states and the territory of the Federal Capital (FCT) before the festival.
“Since its inception in 1973, the National Sports Festival has encouraged unity among young athletes throughout the country. It is more than a competition; it represents Nigeria’s strength and resistance,” Tinubu said.
The president paid tribute to Nigerian sports legends, particularly the Olympic medalist and the bearer of the national torch, Falilat Ogkoya, recognizing his contributions to promote unity and excellence in African sports. He also extended his best wishes to the Super Eagles while preparing to face Zimbabwe in his FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifier in Uyo later that day, expressing confidence in his victory.
Ogun State is preparing for a record sports festival
Governor Dapo Abiodun said that the state of Ogun is fully prepared to house more than 10,000 athletes in what promises to be a historical sporting event. He pointed out that renowned Nigerian athletes, including Anthony Joshua and Tobi Amusan, would decorate the festival, reinforcing Nigeria’s reputation as a global sports power.
“As Nelson Mandela said, sports have the power to change the world. The unity torch is not only a symbol of games but a reflection of our shared aspirations and national identity,” said Abiodun.
For the first time in the history of the National Sports Festival, all participating athletes will stay in a specially designed installation, ensuring comfort, convenience and camaraderie. He said that Ogun’s world class sports infrastructure would offer an event that establishes new standards in organization, participation and excellence.
Governor Abiodun also praised President Tinubu for maintaining peace and stability in Nigeria, emphasizing that without peace, such a festival would not be possible. He recognized the efforts of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Nigerian Olympic Committee so that the festival is a success.
Historical inclusion of junior athletes
The president of NSC, Shehu Dikko, described the National Sports Festival as Nigeria’s equivalent to the Olympic Games. Announced an innovative initiative, which allows the best Junior athletes of the Nation to participate under the category of guest Junior athletes (IJA), totally sponsored by the NSC.
The official ceremony of the Torch hand took place in the presidential town, where the vice governor of the state of Delta, on Monday Onyeme, who represents the governor Sheriff Oborevwori, delivered the unity torch to Shehu Dikko. President Tinubu received the torch and approved it to the president of the main organizing committee, the Hon. Bukola Olopade, who then entrusted Falilat Ogunkoya to begin his trip nationwide.
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