The National Sports Festival torch arrived in Ekiti State on Saturday to the applause of sportsmen and women and other citizens at Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, Ado Ekiti.
While receiving the torch at the brief ceremony, Governor Kayode Fayemi pledged to support sporting activities and other programmes that would ensure peace and friendliness among the people of the state.
Fayemi, who was represented by permanent secretary in the Ministry of Information, Youth and Sports Development, Kola Ajumobi, restated his administration’s readiness to restore the sate’s lost glory in sports.
The governor said it was pertinent for the state, which is known for its academic prowess, to also look in the direction of sports.
He added: “In the recent past, the fastest man and woman in athletics came from Ekiti State. I am referring to Olusoji Fasuba and Damola Osayomi respectively, who were both shining stars at their prime.
“Our greatest resources in Ekiti State remains our people, most especially our youths and since human beings are the measure of all things.
“Healthy and enlightened people can drive the sustainable development we want to achieve in the state. It’s logical to turn towards the attainment of feats in sport.”
Ekiti State Sports Council general manager, Deji Samo added: “I want to categorically state that Ekiti State would be adequately represented at the National Sports Festival to be held in Abuja, where we will participate in 18 games and sporting activities.”
