Sanwo-Olu receives Torch of Unity, reaffirms Lagos support for Sports Festival

By Adeola Ogunrinde
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reaffirmed Lagos State’s commitment to national unity, youth development, and integration through sports as the Torch of Unity for the 22nd National Sports Festival arrived in the state. The symbolic handover took place on Monday at the State House in Ikeja, where the Governor was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin.
Sanwo-Olu described the National Sports Festival as a crucial platform for discovering talent, empowering youth, and promoting sportsmanship across Nigeria. “This biennial multi-sport event discovers and nurtures our best athletic talents while fostering national unity, sportsmanship, and healthy competition,” he said.
He emphasized the significance of the torch relay, calling it a symbol of peace and unity. The Torch of Unity, flagged off by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja on March 25, is being carried across all 36 states and is en route to Ogun State, which will host the 2025 edition of the festival.

The 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged “The Gateway Games Ogun 2025,” will take place from May 16 to 30. Sanwo-Olu expressed confidence in the festival’s potential to be a “spectacular celebration of talent, resilience, and unity.”
Urging Lagosians to support the event, he said, “Let us rally behind this noble cause and demonstrate through our hospitality that sports remain a powerful vehicle for national integration and development.”
Also speaking at the event, Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, noted that the festival aligns with the THEMES+ development agenda, which promotes social inclusion, gender equality, and empowerment for all, including persons with disabilities.
Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, introduced the new team slogan, “Team Lagos Best Ever,” and highlighted the importance of the event in showcasing youth potential and strengthening unity.
Team leader Ikana Mbora added that the torch relay serves as a symbol of unity among Nigerian youth and fulfills the presidential mandate to use sports as a platform for national cohesion.