Sports

Sunday Dare Joins President Tinubu to Flag Off Torch of Unity Movement for NSF

Published

7 months ago

March 25, 2025

Joel Ajayi

The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Chief Sunday Dare (CON, FNIS), joined President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday in Abuja to flag off the Torch of Unity Movement for the 22nd National Sports Festival (NSF).

Themed “Gateway Games,” the festival will take place in Ogun State from May 16 to May 30.
President Tinubu described sports as a unifying force and a catalyst for youth engagement, national cohesion, and economic growth. He urged both the public and private sectors to contribute actively to sports development in Nigeria, particularly in infrastructure expansion, talent identification, athlete nurturing, and event sponsorship.

He emphasized that collaboration is key to advancing Nigeria’s sporting potential and maintaining its dominance on the global stage.

The president highlighted the Torch of Unity as a symbol of peace, strength, and solidarity. As part of the festival’s tradition, the torch will travel through all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory before the games commence.

“Since its inception in 1973, the National Sports Festival has served as a vital platform for interaction and integration among our young sportsmen and women,” President Tinubu stated.“This festival is more than a showcase of athletic prowess; it is a celebration of unity, strength, and resilience, reaffirming our collective commitment to nation-building through sports.”

The president also honored Nigerian sporting legends, recognizing Olympic medalist Falilat Ogunkoya as the National Torch Bearer. He praised her dedication to sports excellence and national unity.

Additionally, President Tinubu extended his best wishes to the Super Eagles ahead of their FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifying match against Zimbabwe Warriors in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, expressing confidence in their success.

Governor Dapo Abiodun reaffirmed that Ogun State is fully prepared to host a world-class event, welcoming over 10,000 athletes and setting new records. He announced that elite Nigerian athletes such as Anthony Joshua and Tobi Amusan would grace the occasion, reinforcing Nigeria’s status as a global sporting powerhouse.
Quoting Nelson Mandela, Governor Abiodun emphasize.

“Sports can change the world. They can inspire and unite people in a way that little else can.”

Share on Facebook

Sports

Team Nigeria Jets to Cairo for 11th World Para Powerlifting Championships

Published

10 mins ago

October 7, 2025

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

Excitement is high as Team Nigeria’s para powerlifting contingent departed Nigeria on Tuesday, October 7, for the 11th World Para Powerlifting Championships set to take place in Cairo, Egypt, from October 9 to 18, 2025.

The milestone event marks the first-ever World Championships to be hosted on African soil, symbolizing a new era for the sport on the continent.

The first batch of Team Nigeria athletes left the country on Tuesday amid cheers and well-wishes from officials, fans, and supporters.

The second batch of the contingent is scheduled to depart tomorrow, October 8, from Lagos, completing the full team that will represent the nation at this landmark competition.

Speaking ahead of the departure, officials expressed confidence in the team’s readiness and determination to uphold Nigeria’s longstanding reputation as a force to be reckoned with, in global para powerlifting.

The National Sports Commission (NSC) reaffirmed its full support for the athletes, emphasizing the government’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and excellence in sports.

Share on Facebook