Sports
Spirit of Unity Ignited as National Sports Festival’s Unity Torch Lands in Nasarawa, Benue States
The spirit of national unity was on full display as the Unity Torch for the 22nd National Sports Festival made its way to Nasarawa and Benue States on Wednesday, signaling the countdown to the highly anticipated Gateway Games 2024 in Ogun State.
A delegation from the National Sports Commission (NSC) presented the Torch to the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, at the Government House in Lafia.
Receiving the Torch, Governor Sule commended the NSC for its efforts in fostering national peace and unity through sports and reaffirmed Nasarawa State’s commitment to full participation in the upcoming festival.
The Unity Torch then journeyed across the River Benue to the “Food Basket of the Nation,” where it was received by the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia.
Speaking on behalf of the governor, Deputy Governor Sam Ode described the Torch’s arrival as a powerful symbol of national cohesion and an inspiration for sports lovers across the country.
“This Torch of Unity undoubtedly symbolizes our shared aspirations and collective identity. It is with great honor that I receive it today on behalf of the people’s governor,” Ode remarked.
He further called on investors to support the state’s sporting initiatives, emphasizing that sports should be viewed not just as a recreational activity but as a thriving industry.
“We are committed to diversifying into other sporting disciplines such as volleyball, handball, and table tennis to discover new talents who will represent Benue State,” he added.
Leader of the NSC delegation, Ikana Mbora, highlighted that the presentation of the Torch of Unity served as both an invitation for states to actively participate in the festival and a reminder of the nation’s collective anticipation for the event.
The arrival of the torch in Nasarawa and Benue underscores the growing excitement surrounding the festival, which aims to unite the nation through athletic excellence and camaraderie. The Torch will continue its journey to different states across the nation.
The 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, Gateway Games 2024, will take place in Abeokuta, Ogun State, from May 16-30, 2025.
Sports
Nigeria Volleyball Reporters Congratulates Oguntimehin On Election As Fct Swan Chairman
The Nigeria Volleyball Reporters Association (NVRA) has congratulated Tolu Oguntimehin on his election as Chairman of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter.
NVRA described his emergence as an opportunity to strengthen sports journalism and advance the welfare of members.
Oguntimehin emerged victorious at the FCT SWAN elective congress held on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, defeating his challenger, Raphael Ekpang, by 88 votes to four.
In a congratulatory message, the Chairman of Nigeria Volleyball Reporters, Alhaji Ganiyu Oloyede described the election outcome as a testament to the confidence reposed in Oguntimehin by members of the association.
Oloyede expressed optimism that the new chairman would bring purposeful leadership, inclusiveness and renewed commitment to the development of sports journalism in the FCT.
He stressed that the responsibility of leading the association goes beyond occupying an office.
Oloyede noted that the new administration must prioritise members’ welfare, professional development, unity and the protection of their collective interests.
The NVR chairman also challenged the incoming leadership to create an enabling environment where sports journalists can thrive professionally, gain greater access to sporting events and contribute meaningfully to the growth of Nigerian sports.
He particularly welcomed Oguntimehin’s commitment to establishing a ₦200 million financial base for the association, describing the proposed initiative as an ambitious step towards building a financially stronger and more sustainable SWAN FCT.
Oloyede further emphasised the importance of collaboration among sports journalists, sports federations, government institutions and other stakeholders, maintaining that stronger partnerships would create more opportunities for members and improve the quality of sports reporting.
He urged the new executive to embrace transparency, accountability and open communication while ensuring that every member feels represented in the administration.
The Nigeria Volleyball Reporters reaffirmed its readiness to work with the new SWAN FCT leadership in promoting sports journalism, strengthening professional relationships and projecting Nigerian sports positively.
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