Benue state deputy governor, Barr. Sam Ode, Wednesday, received the Torch of Unity on behalf of Governor Hyacinth Alia, and formally assured of the state’s full participation at the National Sports Festival (NSF).
The festival, tagged “Gateway Games,” is scheduled to take place in Ogun state from May 16 to May 30, 2025.
Ikana Mbora, leader of the delegation from the National Sports Commission, presented the torch, symbolising the countdown to the festival.
Mbora commended the deputy governor for the warm reception and emphasised that the presentation of the Unity Torch marks a formal invitation for Benue state’s participation in the festival.
Deputy governor Ode praised the delegation’s visit, describing it as a symbol of unity that will bring together sports enthusiasts from across the country.
He also commended Governor Alia’s commitment to sports development, particularly in infrastructural development and investment in football.
Ode emphasised that Benue state is looking to diversify its sporting activities, including volleyball, handball, and table tennis, to develop talents that will represent the state both nationally and internationally.
He also acknowledged the efforts of the Commissioner of Sports, Youths Development and Creativity, Terkimbi Ikyange, and the management of Lobi Stars Football Club.
The deputy governor assured the Sport Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) of the government’s continued support and committed to full SWAN representation at the Ogun 2025 festival.