Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has assured that his administration would remain steadfast in its commitment to supporting youths and sports development at all levels through the provision of adequate infrastructure, training facilities, and a conducive environment in the state.
This governor stated this on Tuesday while receiving the Torch of Unity, which signals the commencement of the Ogun 2025 National Sports Festival, tagged “Gateway 2025,” noting that his administration would continue to promote youth engagement and healthy competition through sports.
Governor Makinde, who was represented by his deputy, Barr. Bayo Lawal, received the representative of the National Sports Council, Mrs Ekeana Ibora and collected the Torch at the entrance of the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Agodi, 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, the governor stressed that the Torch of Unity is more than a ceremonial emblem, stressing that it is 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, both on and off the field, Governor Makinde said the government would recognise and reward athletes and officials, who bring honour to the state.
He said: “I bring felicitation from the government and the good people of Oyo State. It is with great excitement that I welcome you all to this occasion, which is the reception of the Torch of Unity, a significant symbol of the commencement of Ogun 2024 National Sports Festival.
“The Torch of Unity is more than a ceremonial emblem; it is a powerful symbol of peace, unity and brotherhood across the 36 states of our great country.
“Receiving this torch here in Oyo State is not just an honour; it is a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to national cohesion and shared progress.
“I am happy to be part of this momentous event, which serves 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.
“I assure you that this administration remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting sports development at all levels through the provision of adequate infrastructure, training facilities and conducive environment.
“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.”
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.
Signed
Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju
Special Adviser (Media) to Oyo State Governor
May 13, 2025.
