President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday launched the Torch of Unity Movement for the 22nd National Sports Festival in Abuja, reaffirming his administration’s dedication to fostering sports development in Nigeria.
The upcoming festival, tagged ‘Gateway Games’, is scheduled to be held in Ogun State from May 16 to May 30, 2025.
Speaking at the event, President Tinubu highlighted sports as a powerful tool for national unity, youth engagement, and economic growth.
Emphasising the need for collective investment in Nigerian sports, the President urged both the public and private sectors to actively contribute to expanding sports infrastructure, identifying and nurturing young talent, and sponsoring sporting events.
He noted that stronger collaboration would enhance Nigeria’s standing in global sports and unlock greater opportunities for athletes.
The Torch of Unity, a traditional emblem of the festival, will journey through all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory before arriving in Ogun State for the official commencement of the games.
President Tinubu stated that since its inception in 1973, the National Sports Festival has been a key platform for promoting national integration, talent discovery, and friendly competition among young athletes.
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He emphasised that every step towards the festival is a reaffirmation of the country’s collective commitment to nation-building through sports.
He also paid tribute to Falilat Ogunkoya, Nigeria’s Olympic medalist and the official National Torch Bearer, recognizing her dedication to promoting unity and excellence in sports.
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State assured Nigerians of a historic and well-organized festival, set to welcome over 10,000 athletes.
He announced that, for the first time in the history of the National Sports Festival, all athletes will be housed in a single purpose-built facility, ensuring comfort and camaraderie.
The governor also confirmed that elite athletes such as Anthony Joshua and Tobi Amusan would be part of the festival, reinforcing Nigeria’s status as a sporting powerhouse.
He further thanked President Tinubu for ensuring peace and security, acknowledging that without peace, there would be no sports festival.
The Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, described the National Sports Festival as Nigeria’s version of the Olympics.
He revealed that, for the first time, top junior athletes from across the country would participate under a new Invited Junior Athletes category, fully sponsored by the commission.
In a show of support for Nigerian football, President Tinubu also sent his best wishes to the Super Eagles ahead of their FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifying match against Zimbabwe later on Tuesday in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The event concluded with a ceremonial handover of the Torch of Unity at the Presidential Villa.
Delta State Deputy Governor, Monday Onyeme, representing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, passed the torch to the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko.
Dikko then presented it to Bukola Olopade, Chairman of the Main Organizing Committee.
The torch was handed over to Falilat Ogunkoya, who will lead its journey across the country.
