President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday launched the movement of the Torch of Unity ahead of the 22nd National Sports Festival, set to take place in Ogun State from May 16 to May 30, 2025.
At about 2:15 pm, Tinubu lit the symbolic torch at the State House in Abuja while receiving a delegation from the National Sports Commission.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to nation-building through sports, saying, “by providing incentives for sports development at all levels.”
He encouraged both public and private sector stakeholders to continue supporting sporting events as a means of promoting unity across the country.
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The National Sports Festival, established in 1973 after the civil war, is Nigeria’s biggest multi-sport competition, designed to foster national cohesion and develop grassroots sports. It brings together athletes from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to compete in various disciplines.
The National Sports Commission described the festival as a platform for “talent discovery, national cohesion, and preparation for international competitions.”
A key tradition of the festival is the Torch of Unity relay, which symbolises peace and solidarity.
The torch is ceremonially ignited and taken on a nationwide tour through all participating states before arriving in the host state for the opening ceremony, officially marking the start of the games.