President Bola Tinubu officially launched the Torch of Unity Movement for the 22nd National Sports Festival (Gateway Games) on Tuesday in Abuja, emphasizing his administration’s unwavering commitment to fostering sports development in Nigeria.
The festival is set to take place in Ogun State from May 16 to May 30, 2025.
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Highlighting the unifying power of sports, Tinubu described it as a key driver of youth engagement, national cohesion, and economic growth. He urged both the public and private sectors to invest in the development of sports infrastructure, talent discovery, athlete mentorship, and sponsorship of sporting events, stressing that collaboration is essential to elevate Nigeria’s global sporting presence.
The Torch of Unity, symbolizing peace, strength, and solidarity, will travel through all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) ahead of the festival.
“Since its inception in 1973, the National Sports Festival has fostered unity among young athletes across the nation. It is more than just a competition; it represents the strength and resilience of Nigeria,” Tinubu stated.
The President paid tribute to Nigerian sports legends, particularly Olympic medalist and National Torch Bearer, Falilat Ogunkoya, recognizing her contributions to promoting unity and excellence in African sports. He also extended his best wishes to the Super Eagles as they prepared to face Zimbabwe in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Uyo later that day, expressing confidence in their victory.
Ogun State Gears Up for a Record-Breaking Sports Festival
Governor Dapo Abiodun assured that Ogun State is fully prepared to host over 10,000 athletes in what promises to be a historic sporting event. He noted that renowned Nigerian athletes, including Anthony Joshua and Tobi Amusan, would grace the festival, reinforcing Nigeria’s reputation as a global sporting powerhouse.
“As Nelson Mandela said, sports have the power to change the world. The Torch of Unity is not just a symbol of the games but a reflection of our shared aspirations and national identity,” Abiodun remarked.
For the first time in National Sports Festival history, all participating athletes will be housed in a purpose-built facility, ensuring comfort, convenience, and camaraderie. He assured that Ogun’s world-class sporting infrastructure would deliver an event that sets new standards in organization, participation, and excellence.
Governor Abiodun also praised President Tinubu for maintaining peace and stability in Nigeria, emphasizing that without peace, such a festival would not be possible. He acknowledged the efforts of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, the National Sports Commission (NSC), and the Nigerian Olympic Committee in making the festival a success.
Historic Inclusion of Junior Athletes
NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko described the National Sports Festival as Nigeria’s equivalent of the Olympics. He announced a groundbreaking initiative, allowing the nation’s best junior athletes to participate under the Invited Junior Athletes (IJA) category, fully sponsored by the NSC.
The official torch-handover ceremony took place at the Presidential Villa, where Delta State’s Deputy Governor, Monday Onyeme, representing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, handed over the Torch of Unity to Shehu Dikko. President Tinubu received the torch and passed it to the Chairman of the Main Organizing Committee, Hon. Bukola Olopade, who then entrusted it to Falilat Ogunkoya to begin its nationwide journey.
