Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, yesterday, 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.
 
Makinde stated this while receiving the Torch of Unity, which signals the commencement of the Ogun 2025 National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway 2025.
Governor Makinde, who was represented by his deputy, Bayo Lawal, received the representative of the National Sports Council, Mrs Nkana Ibora, and collected the Torch at the entrance to the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.
 
The Sports Festival is scheduled to begin this weekend, in Abeokuta. 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’s athletes to uphold the values of sportsmanship and integrity and be exemplary representatives, both on and off the field, 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 the 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,” he said. In attendance at the event was the Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Miss Wasilat Adegoke, and other top officials of the Oyo State Sports Council.