Hananeel Jackson
The Torch of Unity has landed in Bayelsa State in a tour ahead of the commencement of Delta 2022 National Sports Festival which begins from 28th to 10th of December.
The Torch of Unity arrived Yenagoa the Bayelsa State capital on Saturday and was received, amid a brief reception ceremony from Ekeki to the Peace Park.
Bayelsa State governor, Senator Douye Diri who received the flaming torch at the peace park charged the athletes to surpass the record set in the 2020 National Sports Festival in Benin City Edo State, pointing out that he is committed to youth empowerment through sports.
Governor Diri while appreciating the federal government for sustaining the initiative since its maiden edition in 1973,explained that sports has remained a unifying platform for Nigerians and the government would continue to invest in it.
The Bayelsa state helmsman stated that all outstanding stars that have written the name of the State in gold were discovered during National Sports Festivals, which showed that government’s investment in sports is yielding results.
He charged the state contingents to go to Asaba and display the virtues of understanding, oneness, peace and sportsmanship and ensure that they return home with the trophy.
In a remark coordinator Torch of Unity and Deputy Director, Ministry of Youths and Sports, Chief Amaka Ashiofu noted that the torch of unity signifies peace and unity for the country, stressing that sports is a tool that unites the world irrespective of their religion.
Chief Ashiofu thanked the governor for his continuous support in sports development which according to her has attracted global attention for the state.
Also, Director of Sports Bayelsa State Sports Council, Sir Braveman Wodi, remarked that the contingents would consolidate on the achievements of the last edition, stressing that the athletes are fully prepared for the competition.
Sir Wodi lauded the governor Diri and his deputy Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo for making funds available to execute the task ahead, expressed happiness that the unity torch has been received in the state.
