Tinubu flags off Torch of Unity for 22nd National Sports Festival

President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday launched the Torch of Unity Movement for the 22nd National Sports Festival in Abuja, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to fostering sports development and providing an enabling environment for athletes to thrive.

The festival, themed Gateway Games, will take place in Ogun State from May 16 to May 30, bringing together thousands of athletes from across the country.

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Describing sports as a powerful tool for national unity, youth engagement, and economic growth, President Tinubu called on both the public and private sectors to contribute to the development of sports infrastructure, talent identification, and athlete sponsorship.

He emphasized that greater collaboration is essential to strengthening Nigeria’s sporting potential and maintaining its global competitiveness.

The Torch of Unity, a symbol of peace, strength, and solidarity, will travel through all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, heralding the upcoming festival.

Speaking on the significance of the National Sports Festival, President Tinubu highlighted its role since its inception in 1973 as a platform for fostering interaction, integration, and national unity among young athletes.

“This festival is more than just a competition; it embodies the unity, strength, and resilience that define us as a nation,” he said.

“Every step we take towards the festival is a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to nation-building through sports.”

The President also paid tribute to Nigeria’s sporting legends, acknowledging Olympic medalist and National Torch Bearer Falilat Ogunkoya for her contributions to sports excellence in Nigeria and Africa.

He extended his best wishes to the Super Eagles ahead of their FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifying match against Zimbabwe in Uyo, expressing confidence in their victory.

Governor Dapo Abiodun assured that Ogun State is fully prepared to host a world-class event, welcoming over 10,000 athletes. He noted that elite athletes like Anthony Joshua and Tobi Amusan would be present, further enhancing Nigeria’s global sporting reputation.

Quoting Nelson Mandela, he emphasized the power of sports in uniting people, stating, “The Torch of Unity is not just a symbol of the festival but a reflection of our shared aspirations and collective identity.”

Abiodun highlighted Ogun’s state-of-the-art facilities, noting that, for the first time in the festival’s history, all athletes will be housed within a single purpose-built facility, ensuring comfort and camaraderie.

“Our infrastructure meets international standards, and we are committed to delivering a record-breaking festival in terms of organization, participation, and excellence,” he added.

He also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for ensuring peace in the country, noting that “without peace, there will be no sports festival.”

Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), described the festival as Nigeria’s version of the Olympics. He announced that, for the first time, the best junior athletes in the country would compete under the Invited Junior Athletes (IJA) category, marking a historic inclusion in the event.

During a handover ceremony at the Presidential Villa, Delta State Deputy Governor Monday Onyeme, representing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, presented the Festival Torch of Unity to NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko. President Tinubu then received the torch and passed it to the Chairman of the Main Organizing Committee, Hon. Bukola Olopade, who entrusted it to Falilat Ogunkoya for its journey across Nigeria.