By Ikenna Nwokedi
The Executive Governor of Anambra State, Gov. Chukwuma Charles Soludo has promised enhanced support towards sports growth and development in the state.
Gov. Soludo made the remarks on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Government House in Awka while received the ‘Torch of Unity’ for the upcoming 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival (NSF) tagged ‘Gateway Games’ scheduled to hold from May, 18th to 30th, 2025 at Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The colourful event which was a ceremonial march had members of staff of the Anambra State Sports Development Commission (ASSDC), sports stakeholders from the National Sports Commission (NSC), sports enthusiasts and afficionados all converging at the Government House to formally present the Torch of Unity to the number one citizen of the state.
The ‘Torch of Unity’, a symbol of peace, strength, and solidarity, was first lifted by Chioma Ede before being handed over to National Youth Games Gold medalist, Chibuike Oranye; the Director of Sports at the ASSDC, Emeka Obidimma; Chairman of the ASSDC, Hon. Patrick Estate Onyedum and Mrs. Mbora Ikana from the NSC, who presented to Governor Soludo as part of the ceremonial event.
Speaking after receiving the Torch, Gov. Soludo described sports as a unifying factor and a catalyst for youth engagement, national cohesion, and economic advancement. Gov. Soludo who was represented by his Chief of Protocol and Deputy Chief of Staff, Chief Chinedu Nwoye (Glamour) eulogized the NSC for its continuous efforts in promoting national integration through sports.
Gov. Soludo reaffirmed his administration’s 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 and sponsorship of sporting events to elevate the nation’s sports industry.
“The games represent much more than just a competition of to showcase sporting prowess, it highlights 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,” Gov. Soludo said.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the ASSDC, Hon. Patrick Estate Onyedum, stated that synergy and fruitful collaboration among stakeholders is crucial for advancing Nigeria’s sports industry and maintaining its competitive edge at the global level. The ASSDC boss informed that Team Anambra contingent will prepare well in order to showcase Anambra’s strength and potentials through sports at the games.
On her part, Mrs. Mbora Ikana, the leader of the NSC delegation, announced that this year’s festival will feature 28 compulsory and four optional sports, with competitions scheduled from May 18 to 30, 2025, in Ogun State. She informed that outstanding junior athletes from the last National Youth Games will also participate, aiding talent development for the nation’s future.
Other dignitaries who witnessed the occasion were the Zonal Coordinator South East Zone of the AFN, Mrs Jane Owo; the Hon. Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Patrick Agha Mba; SPAD to Gov. Soludo on Market, Chief Everest Uba; the Technical Consultant to ASSDC, Olu Sule, among others.
