Soludo Receives Torch Of Unity For National Sports Festival, Reaffirms Commitment To Sports Development
Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Government House, Awka, received the Torch of Unity Movement for the 22nd National Sports Festival tagged ‘Gateway Games’, reaffirming the state’s commitment to the growth of sports as a tool for national unity and youth empowerment.
The event witnessed a ceremonial march through Awka by staff of the Anambra State Sports Development Commission, sports stakeholders from both the National Sports Commission and the state, as well as sports enthusiasts, who converged at the Government House to formally present the Torch of Unity to the Governor.
The Torch, symbolizing peace, strength, and solidarity, was first carried by Chioma Ede before being handed over sequentially to Oranye Chibuke, the Director of Sports Emeka Obidimma, Chairman of Anambra State Sports Development Commission (ASSDC) Mr. Patrick Estate Onyedum, and Mrs. Mbora Ikana, who ultimately presented it to Governor Soludo at a brief but colorful ceremony.
Receiving the Torch, Governor Soludo, who was represented by his Chief of Protocol and Deputy Chief of Staff, Chief Chinedu Nwoye, described sports as a unifying force and a catalyst for youth engagement, national cohesion, and economic advancement. He lauded the National Sports Commission for its continued efforts in promoting national unity through sports.
Soludo emphasized his administration’s unwavering commitment to supporting and providing an enabling environment for sports development in Anambra State. He urged both the public and private sectors to actively invest in sports infrastructure, talent discovery, athlete nurturing, and sponsorship of sporting events to elevate the nation’s sports industry.
“The games represent much more than just a competition of athletic skill; they embody the unity, strength, and resilience that define us as a nation. Every step towards the festival is a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to nation-building through sports,” the Governor stated.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Anambra State Sports Development Commission, Mr. Patrick Estate Onyedum, emphasized that enhanced collaboration among stakeholders is crucial for advancing Nigeria’s sporting potential and maintaining its competitive edge globally.
Adding her voice, Mrs. Mbora Ikana, the leader of the NSC delegation, announced that the festival will feature 28 compulsory and four optional sports, with competitions scheduled from May 16 to 30, 2025, in Ogun State. She noted that outstanding junior athletes from the last National Youth Games will also participate, aiding talent discovery for the nation’s future.
The ceremony was graced by top dignitaries including Sports Director of Sports Anambra State Sports Development Commission, Emeka Obidimma, Jane Owo; Zonal Coordinator South East Zone, Ben Ezema; Commissioner for Youth Development, Patrick Agha Mba; and SPA on Market, Chief Everest Uba, former Zonal Coordinator South East Zone, Mrs, Consultant to ASSDC, Olu Sule, among others.