President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday officially flagged off the Torch of Unity Movement for the 22nd National Sports Festival (NSF), reaffirming his administration’s dedication to fostering sports development in Nigeria.
The festival, tagged “Gateway Games”, is scheduled to take place in Ogun State from May 16 to May 30, 2025.
During the flag-off ceremony in Abuja, President Tinubu highlighted the unifying power of sports, describing it as a vital tool for youth engagement, national cohesion, and economic growth. His remarks were conveyed in a statement by his Special Adviser on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
The President urged public and private sector stakeholders to actively support sports development through infrastructure expansion, talent discovery, athlete mentorship, and sponsorship of sporting events. He emphasized that enhanced collaboration is essential to maintaining Nigeria’s dominance in global sports.
He also described the Torch of Unity as a symbol of peace, strength, and solidarity, adding that it will travel through all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) before the festival officially commences.
“Since the inception of the National Sports Festival in 1973, the games have provided a platform for young athletes across the country to interact, compete, and integrate under the spirit of sportsmanship. These games are more than just a contest of athletic skills; they embody the unity, strength, and resilience of our nation,” President Tinubu said.
President Tinubu also paid tribute to Falilat Ogunkoya, the Olympic medalist and National Torch Bearer, recognizing her contributions to sports development in Nigeria and Africa.
Additionally, he extended his best wishes to the Super Eagles of Nigeria ahead of their FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifying match against Zimbabwe Warriors in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, expressing confidence in their ability to secure victory.
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State assured that the state is fully prepared to host a world-class sports festival, welcoming over 10,000 athletes. He revealed that elite Nigerian sports figures such as Anthony Joshua and Tobi Amusan would grace the event, reinforcing Nigeria’s status as a global sporting powerhouse.
“For the first time in the history of the National Sports Festival, all athletes will be accommodated within a single purpose-built facility, ensuring comfort, convenience, and camaraderie. Our sporting infrastructure meets international standards, and we are committed to delivering a festival that will set new records in organization, participation, and excellence,” Governor Abiodun stated.
He also commended President Tinubu for ensuring peace in Nigeria, emphasizing that without peace, there can be no sports festival.
Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, described the National Sports Festival as Nigeria’s version of the Olympics. He noted that, for the first time, the Commission has invited the best junior athletes in the country to participate under its sponsorship through the Invited Junior Athletes (IJA) category, marking a historic inclusion in the festival.
At the forecourt of the Presidential Villa, Deputy Governor of Delta State, Monday Onyeme, representing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, handed over the Torch of Unity to NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko. The torch was then passed to Hon. Bukola Olopade, Chairman of the Main Organizing Committee, who entrusted it to Falilat Ogunkoya for its nationwide journey.
The Torch of Unity Movement will symbolize the countdown to the 22nd National Sports Festival, rallying the nation towards a celebration of sportsmanship, unity, and excellence.
