Sports Festival: Makinde Receives ‘Torch Of Unity,’ Pledges Support For Youth Dev’t

Oyo State governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde has assured of his administration’s steadfast commitment to supporting youths and sports development at all levels.

In doing these, Governor Makinde said the state government make provision for adequate infrastructure, training facilities, and a conducive environment in the state.

Governor Makinde stated this on Tuesday while receiving the ‘Torch of Unity,’ which signals the commencement of the Ogun 2025 National Sports Festival, tagged “Gateway 2025.”

He noted that his administration would continue to promote youth engagement and healthy competition through sports.

Represented by his deputy, Barr. Bayo Lawal, Governor Makinde received the representative of the National Sports Council, Mrs Ekeana Ibora and collected the torch at the entrance of the Governor’s Office at the state secretariat, Agodi in Ibadan.

The sports festival is scheduled to take place between May 13th and May 24th, 2025.

According to the governor, receiving the Torch of Unity in Oyo State was an honour and a reaffirmation of the collective commitment to national cohesion and shared progress.

Addressing the officials and the athletes of Oyo State contingent to the festival, the governor stressed that the Torch of Unity was more than a ceremonial emblem, stressing that it was a powerful symbol of peace, unity and brotherhood across the 36 States of the federation.

While encouraging the state athletes to uphold the values of sportsmanship and integrity and be exemplary representatives, Makinde pledged that the state government would recognise and reward athletes and officials who bring honour to the state.

The governor who expressed happiness for receiving the touch, further noted the momentous event served as a platform for the promotion of socio-cultural integration, hereby reinforcing the ideals of national unity.

“Youth engagement and healthy competition are values that Oyo State holds dearly. And, as we prepare for the festival, I urge our athletes to represent Oyo State with passion, discipline and excellence. Please go beyond participation by also aiming to bring glory to our beloved state,” he charged the athletes.

“At this juncture, I want to assure you that this government will continue to recognise and reward those who bring pride and honour to our state,” he assured.

In attendance at the event were the Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Miss Wasilat Adegoke and other top officials of the Oyo State Sports Council.