Abuja, Nigeria — President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday inaugurated the Torch of Unity Movement in Abuja for the upcoming 22nd National Sports Festival, known as the Gateway Games, set to hold in Ogun State from May 16 to 30, 2025. The President emphasized his government’s ongoing support for sports development and called for both public and private sector collaboration.
During the ceremony at the State House, Tinubu described sports as a vital instrument for fostering unity and engagement among the youth. He stated that the Torch of Unity symbolizes peace, strength, and solidarity as it embarks on a journey through all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory ahead of the festival.
“Since the inception of the National Sports Festival in 1973, it has facilitated interaction among our young athletes,” Tinubu said. “This event provides a platform for states and the FCT to showcase their athletic talents through healthy competition and sportsmanship, thus strengthening national unity.”
The President remarked that the festival embodies more than just athletic skill; it represents the unity, strength, and resilience of the Nigerian spirit. “Each step taken towards this festival is not only preparation for a sporting event but also a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to national development through sports,” he added.
Tinubu acknowledged contributions from Nigeria’s sporting legends, particularly Olympic medalist and National Torch Bearer Falilat Ogunkoya, praising her dedication toward promoting unity and sports excellence across the continent. Additionally, he expressed best wishes to Nigeria’s Super Eagles in their upcoming FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifying match against Zimbabwe.
Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun assured readiness to host over 10,000 athletes, setting the stage for a world-class festival. He highlighted that renowned athletes like Anthony Joshua and Tobi Amusan will participate, reinforcing Nigeria’s status as a premier sporting nation.
“As Nelson Mandela said, ‘sports can change the world,’ and the unity torch represents not just the games but our shared vision and identity as a nation,” Abiodun noted. He emphasized that this year athletes will stay in a purpose-built facility, promoting comfort and camaraderie during the festival.
Abiodun indicated that Ogun State’s sports infrastructure meets international standards and expressed confidence about organizing an extraordinary event with record participation and excellence. “Our facilities are ready; our people are excited; our athletes are primed to display Nigeria’s best sporting talent to the world,” he stated.
The governor praised President Tinubu for fostering peace in the country, underscoring that security is paramount for a successful sports festival. He acknowledged the essential roles of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, the National Sports Commission, the Nigerian Olympic Committee, and other stakeholders in organizing the event.
Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, referred to the National Sports Festival as Nigeria’s version of the Olympics. Notably, he announced the inclusion of junior athletes under its sponsorship for the first time, allowing them to compete in the Invited Junior Athletes category.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, the deputy governor of Delta State, Monday Onyeme, symbolically handed the Festival Torch of Unity to Dikko. President Tinubu received the torch and passed it to Bukola Olopade, Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, who entrusted it to Falilat Ogunkoya for its tour across the country.
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Chris Chigozie
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