Vice President Kashim Shettima officially declared the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival open at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the event, Shettima emphasized that sports play a crucial role in fostering national unity across Nigeria. He noted that beyond unity, sports also serve as a driver for economic development and a platform for projecting Nigeria’s image globally.
“The current administration recognizes the role of sports in promoting patriotism. For over a decade, sports have placed Nigeria on the global stage and remain a vital force for national cohesion,” Shettima said.
In his welcome address, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, described the festival as more than just a sporting event, calling it a celebration of national strength and unity.
He encouraged all participating athletes to compete with passion, integrity, and respect for one another, stating, “Our bid to host this event was inspired by our unwavering belief in the transformative power of sports as a catalyst for youth development.”
Also speaking at the ceremony, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Malam Shehu Dikko, praised President Tinubu’s decision to restructure the former Federal Ministry of Sports into the National Sports Commission. He said the move has laid the groundwork for sustainable growth in the nation’s sports sector.
Dikko further revealed that, for the first time in the history of the National Sports Festival, junior athletes have been officially invited to participate.
Credit: Yusuf A. Yusuf
Ogun 2024: Vice President Shettima Declares National Sports Festival Open
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