Sports

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

Published

8 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.”

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Sports

Lawal Delivers Another Brilliant Performance in Europe

Published

8 hours ago

November 5, 2025

The Gleamer

After displaying great form for Istra 1961against Vukovar in the score draw encounter in the elite league few days ago in Croatia, Salim Fago Lawal has continued to enjoy rave of the moment status in the Eastern European nation.

On Wednesday, Lawal was on the scores sheet for Istra in the 75th minute against Kurilovec, but it was only for consolation, as Istra crashed out of Croatian cup in round 16.

It was a masterpiece display from the former Flying Eagles striker, whose work rate has shown great development after joining Istra from modest Nigerian clubside in 2023.

He has scored three goals and two assists, totally five – goal contribution as a striker so far this season.

Interestingly, two other Flying Eagles players, Israel Ayuma and Charles Agada, who are also former players of Mavlon FC, featured in the game and they gave good account of themselves.

Sadly, it was not the day of victory on the pitch for the three former players of Mavlon FC of Lagos.

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