By Joke Kujenya
PRESIDENT BOLA Tinubu, on Tuesday in Abuja, officially launched the Torch of Unity Movement for the 22nd National Sports Festival, reaffirming his administration’s dedication to fostering sports development and creating an enabling environment for athletes and stakeholders.
The highly anticipated sporting event, known as the Gateway Games, is scheduled to take place in Ogun State from May 16 to May 30, 2025.
Tinubu highlighted the festival’s significance, describing sports as a powerful tool for national cohesion, youth engagement, and economic growth.
In his address, President Tinubu urged both public and private sector players to actively contribute to the growth of Nigerian sports, particularly in infrastructure development, talent discovery, athlete nurturing, and event sponsorship.
He stressed that collaboration is essential for unlocking Nigeria’s full sporting potential and maintaining the country’s global competitiveness in sports.
“The National Sports Festival has, since 1973, served as a vital platform for fostering unity and integration among young Nigerian athletes. It is more than just a competition—it embodies the resilience and strength that define us as a nation,” Tinubu stated.
He described the Torch of Unity as a symbol of peace, strength, and solidarity, noting that it will travel across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory ahead of the festival.
President Tinubu also paid tribute to Nigerian sporting legends, including Olympic medalist and National Torch Bearer, Falilat Ogunkoya, acknowledging her contributions to sports excellence in Nigeria and Africa.
He also extended his best wishes to the Super Eagles ahead of their FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe in Uyo, expressing confidence in their victory.
In responding, Governor Dapo Abiodun assured that Ogun State is fully prepared to host a world-class National Sports Festival, welcoming over 10,000 athletes in what promises to be a record-breaking edition.
He announced that renowned athletes such as boxing champion Anthony Joshua and world record holder Tobi Amusan would grace the event, reinforcing Nigeria’s global sporting status.
“As Nelson Mandela said, ‘Sports can change the world.’ The Torch of Unity’s journey across Nigeria symbolizes our shared aspirations and collective identity,” Abiodun stated.
He further highlighted that, for the first time in the festival’s history, all participating athletes will be accommodated in a single, purpose-built facility, ensuring an enhanced experience.
Ogun State’s sporting infrastructure meets international standards, setting the stage for a memorable and well-organised competition.
Governor Abiodun also commended President Tinubu for his efforts in maintaining peace and stability, asserting that “without peace, there will be no sports festival.”
The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, described the National Sports Festival as Nigeria’s equivalent of the Olympics.
He announced a historic move—the inclusion of the best junior athletes in the country, who will compete under the Invited Junior Athletes (IJA) category for the first time.
In a ceremonial handover at the Presidential Villa, Delta State Deputy Governor Monday Onyeme, representing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, passed the Festival Torch of Unity to NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko.
President Tinubu received the torch before entrusting it to the Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, Hon. Bukola Olopade, who then handed it over to Falilat Ogunkoya for its nationwide journey.
