Sports

Glasgow 2026: Tinubu Receives King’s Baton, Vows Strong Nigerian Presence

Published

4 months ago

July 2, 2025

By Joel Ajayi

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Tuesday, received the King’s Baton for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, reaffirming Nigeria’s readiness to participate actively in the global sporting event.

The symbolic handover took place at a brief but colourful ceremony held at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) in Abuja, with President Tinubu represented by the SGF, Senator George Akume.

The Commonwealth Games, a prestigious multi-sport event, is scheduled to take place from July 23 to August 2, 2026, in Glasgow, Scotland.

The King’s Baton Relay, a cherished tradition of the Games, carries a message of goodwill from His Majesty King Charles III, Head of the Commonwealth. The Baton is traveling across 72 Commonwealth nations and territories, covering over 90,000 kilometers before arriving at the opening ceremony in Glasgow.

Speaking on behalf of President Tinubu, Senator Akume reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the ideals of the Commonwealth and to supporting its athletes to perform at their best on the global stage.

“The arrival of the King’s Baton in Nigeria from June 27 to July 2 is a testament to our dedication to the Commonwealth family and the shared values it represents,” Akume said.“This relay is more than just a ceremonial event—it is a celebration of our rich cultural heritage, vibrant diversity, and boundless potential. It also reinforces our dedication to peace, understanding, and sustainable development through the unifying power of sports.”

He likened the Baton to the Olympic Torch, describing it as a symbol that ignites collective passion, unity, and renewed determination as nations prepare for the 2026 Games.

“Our athletes have consistently brought honour and glory to Nigeria since our debut at the Commonwealth Games in 1950. We remain determined to build on that legacy,” he added.
President Tinubu also commended the leadership of the National Sports Commission (NSC), praising their professionalism and efforts in maintaining Nigeria’s status as Africa’s leading sporting nation.

In his remarks, Chairman of the NSC, Shehu Dikko, announced Nigeria’s intention to bid for the 2030 Centenary Edition of the Commonwealth Games.

“Subject to Presidential approval, Nigeria intends to formally bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games,” Dikko declared.“Nigeria is ready to welcome the world and deliver a truly historic Games that will leave a lasting legacy for the continent and the global sporting community. We have the infrastructure, passion, and talent to make it a reality.”

Dikko emphasized that the King’s Baton Relay is a powerful reminder that the values of sportsmanship, inclusion, and mutual respect are not just ideals but shared commitments lived by all Commonwealth nations.

The Baton Relay began its journey on March 10, 2025, when it was officially launched by His Majesty King Charles III at Buckingham Palace. It carries not just the King’s message but the collective aspirations of humanity—symbolizing unity, friendship, and global cooperation through sport.

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Sports

Dr. Andiir Solomon Atoo Honored with SWAN Diamond Jubilee Award for Outstanding Contributions to Sports

Published

1 hour ago

November 1, 2025

The Gleamer

Cyril Ogar

Benue-born sports administrator and philanthropist, Dr. Andiir Solomon Atoo, has expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) for recognizing his contribution to sports development in Benue State and Nigeria at large.

Dr. Atoo, who serves as President of Flight Sports Nigeria Limited and Founder of Flight Football Club, Gboko, received the honour during the association’s Diamond Jubilee Celebration in Abuja.

Speaking after receiving the prestigious award, Dr. Atoo described the recognition as a “special motivation and encouragement” to continue contributing to sports growth across the country.

“I’m very happy and honoured. This award means a lot to me because it serves as motivation and encouragement. It’s something very special and not something I take lightly,” he said.

A respected sports administrator, CEO, and humanitarian, Dr. Atoo has built a sterling reputation for his commitment to nurturing young talents and promoting grassroots sports in Benue State.

Through Flight Sports Nigeria Limited, which oversees a range of sporting disciplines including football, volleyball, basketball, lawn tennis, and para sports, he has created opportunities for young athletes to develop their potential and pursue professional careers.

Under his leadership, Flight Football Club Gboko has become a platform for discovering and grooming promising footballers who have gone on to make their mark both locally and internationally. Beyond football, his investment in volleyball, lawn tennis, para sports, and basketball has revitalized interest and participation in these disciplines within Benue and beyond.

Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Atoo noted that his involvement in sports began purely out of passion but has now grown into a lifelong mission.

“It all started as a passion, but over time, it has become part of me — a culture,” he stated. “This recognition only drives me to do more for the progress of our youth and the development of sports in Benue State and Nigeria.”

He also extended his appreciation to sports journalists in the state and across Nigeria for their continuous support and constructive criticism, noting that their work plays a vital role in shaping sports administration and inspiring excellence.
Looking ahead, Dr. Atoo reaffirmed his dedication to empowering young athletes and improving sports structures in the region.

> “Going forward, we’re going to achieve great things in Benue. My message to sports lovers, administrators, and players is simple — stay dedicated, keep believing, and together we can make sports a major unifying force in our state and beyond,” he concluded.

The recognition by SWAN adds to Dr. Atoo’s growing list of honours as a sports leader, CEO, and philanthropist whose initiatives continue to drive youth empowerment and sports development across multiple disciplines in Benue State and Nigeria.

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