Sports
FG inaugurates 22-Member Planining Commmittee For Commonwealth Games King’s Baton Relay Reception
Joel Ajayi
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the growth and development of sports in the country with the inauguration of a 22-member planning committee tasked with preparing and coordinating the modalities for receiving the Commonwealth Games King’s Baton in Nigeria.
The initiative comes as part of the preparations ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
The event, formerly known as the Queen’s Baton Relay, is scheduled to take place in Nigeria from June 15 to 18, 2025.
The inauguration ceremony was presided over by the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, at the Media Centre of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.
In his address, Mallam Dikko emphasized the symbolic significance of the King’s Baton Relay, likening it to the Olympic Torch Relay.
He noted that the Baton would travel across all 74 Commonwealth nations, promoting unity, friendship, and enthusiasm in the lead-up to the Games.
The committee has been mandated to ensure the successful and memorable hosting of the Baton Relay in Nigeria, incorporating a variety of cultural activities to showcase the nation’s rich and diverse heritage. This represents a unique opportunity for Nigeria to present its cultural identity and sporting excellence to the global community.
His Majesty King Charles III officially launched the inaugural Commonwealth Sports King’s Baton Relay at Buckingham Palace on Commonwealth Day, Monday, March 10, 2025.
The relay serves as a rallying call for all Commonwealth nations to unite in friendly competition and uphold the spirit of sportsmanship.
Speaking at the event, the President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, Engr. Habu Gumel, outlined an ambitious vision for Nigerian sports.
He declared that Nigeria aspires to become the leading sporting nation in Africa and rank among the top four nations in the Commonwealth.
He stressed that with strong leadership, unwavering dedication, and collective effort, the goal is achievable.
Gumel encouraged members of the planning committee to execute their responsibilities with diligence and commitment. “Success does not come by chance. It demands perseverance, discipline, and unity of purpose,” he said.
In her acceptance remarks, Dr. (Mrs.) Kehinde Ajayi expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to serve on the committee.
She acknowledged the importance of teamwork, stating that with the support of the Chairman and fellow members, the committee is committed to delivering impactful results.
Meanwhile, the Acting Director General of the National Sports Commission, Mr. Mustapha Ladan, in his vote of thanks, expressed gratitude to the Chairman for appointing a team of professionals with diverse backgrounds and extensive experience in sports development.
He emphasized that the caliber of the committee members reflects the Commission’s serious intent and dedication to sporting excellence.
The 22-member planning committee is expected to bring innovative ideas and broad expertise to ensure the successful hosting of the King’s Baton Relay—an event that marks a key milestone on Nigeria’s journey to the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Sports
Lagos State Sports Commission, Abbey Rangers FC Seal Groundbreaking Partnership for Grassroots Football Development
The Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC) has unveiled a groundbreaking partnership with Abbey Rangers Football Club, a renowned community football institution in the United Kingdom, marking a new era in grassroots football development in Nigeria.
Under this strategic alliance, Abbey Rangers FC will collaborate with the Lagos State Sports Commission to implement a robust seven-pillar framework focused on:
talent development, coaching enhancement, sports science, community engagement, policy support, resource mobilization, and infrastructure growth.
The partnership is a first of its kind between Nigeria and a UK-based community football club and aims to create a sustainable, inclusive, and globally competitive football ecosystem in Lagos State. It promises to unlock new international opportunities for young athletes and coaches, offering pathways for advanced training, mentorship, and global exposure.
Speaking at the official unveiling, Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Mr. Lekan Fatodu, described the partnership as “a landmark step in Lagos’ mission to build a sustainable and inclusive sports ecosystem.”
“This collaboration represents a deliberate effort to connect Lagos with global best practices in grassroots football development,” Fatodu stated.
“Abbey Rangers brings proven expertise and community-driven values that align with our vision to nurture world-class talent and position Lagos as a continental hub for youth sports excellence.”
In his remarks, Abbey Rangers Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Nick Riley, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting that it reflects the club’s long-standing commitment to community-driven sports development.
“We are proud to partner with Lagos State on this visionary initiative,” Riley said.
“Abbey Rangers has always believed that community football is a powerful tool for development, inclusion, and opportunity. This collaboration allows us to share our grassroots model and experience with one of Africa’s most dynamic cities.”
The LSSC–Abbey Rangers partnership is a reflection of Lagos State’s strategic commitment to developing the next generation of football talent through international collaboration, innovation, and community-based sports programs. It also reaffirms the Commission’s leadership in driving sports diplomacy and youth empowerment across Africa.
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