The Unity Torch for the upcoming National Sports Festival, themed “Ogun 2025,” arrived in Enugu on Thursday to a warm and jubilant reception.
The symbolic torch was received at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu, at 10 a.m. by the Enugu State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Lloyd Ike Ekweremmadu, who accepted it on behalf of the state governor, Dr. Peter Mbah.
In his remarks, Ekweremmadu reaffirmed Enugu State’s full commitment to participating in the festival and expressed confidence in the team’s ability to win laurels. He praised the festival as a longstanding initiative that continues to foster national unity and unearth athletic talents across the country.
“Sports remains a powerful unifying force and a vital platform for discovering talent,” Ekweremmadu stated.
“Since its inception, the festival has served its purpose well. I assure you that Enugu State will be strongly represented at Ogun 2025.”
Also speaking at the event, Mbora Ikana, Team Leader for the Unity Cup from the National Sports Commission, explained that the torch’s arrival signals the imminent commencement of the festival. She announced that the 2025 edition will take place from May 16 to 30 in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State in Nigeria’s South-West geopolitical zone.
Enugu State’s Director of Sports, Mr. Boniface Onovoh, also shared plans for the state’s participation. He revealed that 70 athletes and 18 technical crew members will represent Enugu at the event, competing in nine different sports where the state holds a competitive edge.
“Our athletes have completed their preliminary training and will enter official camp next week. We’ve provided allowances, equipment, and full motivation to ensure top performance,” Onovoh said.
He further announced an enticing incentive: a cash reward of ₦100,000 for every athlete who wins a gold medal. “No account numbers involved—once you win gold, you collect your cash. We’re not giving rewards for silver or bronze; this is about aiming for the top,” he emphasized.
The biannual National Sports Festival is expected to host over 15,000 athletes, coaches, and officials from the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory, who will compete in more than 40 sports.
