Nat’l Sports Festival: Makinde Urges Oyo Athletes to Represent State with Passion, Excellence

…As Makinde assured athletes of govt support for sports development through infrastructure provision, training facilities

Oyo State government has charged Oyo State athletes to represent the state with passion, discipline, and excellence at the upcoming Ogun 2025 National Sports Festival.

The Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde who was represented by the deputy Governor, Barr. Adebayo Lawal made the call at the reception of the Touch of Unity for the festival, held at the entrance of the Oyo State Governor’s Office, Agodi, Ibadan.

Governor Makinde assured athletes of the state government’s commitment to supporting sports development through infrastructure provision, training facilities, and a conducive environment.

He urged athletes to aim for podium finishes, bringing glory to Oyo State, and to uphold sportsmanship, integrity, and unity throughout the Festival.

The Governor promised to recognize and reward athletes who bring pride and honor to the state.

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.

The Tourch of Unity Symbolizes peace, unity, and brotherhood among Nigeria’s 36 states.

The Festival is scheduled to take place from May 13th to May 24th, 2025.

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