By Sports Recorder |Solomon OKPO
The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, has called on sports stakeholders across the country to harness the unifying power of sports in fostering national cohesion and creating greater opportunities for Nigerian youths.
Governor Eno made the call when the Unity Torch for the 2024 National Sports Festival, scheduled to hold in Ogun State, arrived at the Akwa Ibom State Government House, Uyo. The symbolic torch was presented by a vibrant entourage of athletes and officials from the State Ministry of Sports.
The State Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, officially handed over the torch to the National Sports Commission’s Team Leader, Mbora Ikana, who in turn presented it to the Governor’s representative, Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah. The brief but colourful ceremony was marked by cheers and celebration.
In his remarks, Governor Eno described sports as a powerful platform for breaking the barriers of tribalism, religious differences, and ethnic bias.
“Sports is that vehicle that nations use to traverse and abolish the borders of tribalism, religion, and ethnic bias. The symbolic journey of this torch across Nigeria underscores the growing need to sow seeds of unity in the hearts of our people, especially our youths,” the Governor stated.
He also encouraged Akwa Ibom athletes to maintain high standards of discipline, compete fairly and drug-free, and strive for excellence at the festival. He assured that his administration remains committed to using sports as a catalyst for peace, unity, and youth empowerment.
Commissioner Bassey, in his earlier remarks, expressed gratitude to the Governor for his continued support of sports development. He noted that the Unity Torch’s movement across the country marks the formal countdown to the National Sports Festival and pledged that Akwa Ibom athletes are prepared to set new records in Ogun State.
The 2024 National Sports Festival will hold in Ogun State from May 16 to 30.
