In preparation for the 22nd National Sports Festival, Delta State Governor Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has officially received the Torch of Unity from the National Sports Commission (NSC). The festival is scheduled to take place in Abeokuta, Ogun State, from May 16 to 30, 2025.
Governor Oborevwori was represented at the event by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, who emphasized the significance of peace and unity. He urged Delta athletes, as defending champions, to prepare diligently for the festival and embody the spirit of excellence.
“You, our young athletes and the entire sporting community in Delta State, are the pride of our state and the future of our great nation. As the defending champions, I encourage you to maintain the spirit of excellence and discipline,” Onyeme stated.
He further expressed pride in Delta State’s legacy of sporting achievement, recalling its successful hosting and victory at the 2022 National Sports Festival. “Delta State consistently stands at the forefront of sporting excellence in Nigeria, nurturing some of the finest athletes who continue to shine both nationally and globally,” he added.
Onyeme also called attention to the unifying force of the festival. “Let this moment remind us that, despite our diverse cultures and backgrounds, we are united by the Nigerian spirit. Together we are stronger, driven by common dreams and aspirations.”
He commended the National Sports Commission and Ogun State for their commitment to promoting national unity and sporting excellence through this event. “As we receive this torch today, may it ignite in us a renewed sense of hope, passion, and national pride. Delta State is committed to supporting and investing in sports as a catalyst for growth, transformation, and unity,” he concluded.
Earlier, Mr. Onoriode Oborevwori, Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, praised the government’s contributions to sports development in the state. He noted that the torch symbolizes peace, unity, and the true spirit of sportsmanship. “Delta State is fully prepared; our athletes are currently training across various cities to make us proud once again at the festival,” he said.
“We are proud to be the defending champions of this prestigious event. Over the years, Delta has shown unwavering commitment to sports development, and we will continue to support our athletes, coaches, and youth who find purpose and pride through sports.”
Mrs. Ikana Mbora, leader of the NSC delegation, highlighted that President Tinubu officially launched the National Sports Festival on March 25, 2025, in Abuja. She explained that the NSC is taking the torch across all 36 states, including Abuja, to promote unity, asserting that sports remain a vital unifying factor for Nigerians.
Mbora urged state governments to invest in youth awareness and development, emphasizing the importance of supporting upcoming athletes. “The festival will take place from May 16 to 30, 2025, in Abeokuta, Ogun State,” she reiterated.
The NSC team has already visited several states across the federation, including regions in the North East, North Central, North West, and South East, and is currently touring the South South region.
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