The Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has encouraged FCT athletes to aim for outstanding performance and secure victories at the 22nd National Sports Festival scheduled to take place in Ogun State from May 16 to 30, 2025.
A statement On Wednesday, March 26, 2025, by the Director Press, Anthony Ogunleye Office of the FCT Minister said, the Chief of Staff to the FCT Minister, Hon. Chidi Amadi, accepted the symbolic Torch of Unity on behalf of Barr. Wike at the FCT Minister’s office in Abuja. The presentation was made by FCT athletes and officials from the National Sports Commission following the torch’s official inauguration by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Torch of Unity is a long-standing tradition of the National Sports Festival, symbolizing unity, strength, and sportsmanship. It will travel across all 36 states of the federation as part of the festival’s preparations.
Barr. Wike, while recognizing the National Sports Festival’s importance in promoting national unity, expressed gratitude to everyone involved in the torch’s journey, including the Mandate Secretary for the FCT Youth Secretariat, Hon. Abdullahi Ango, and the National Sports Commission.
He encouraged the athletes and their coaches to focus on excellence and bring back medals to the FCT.
“Our athletes and coaches are representing the Federal Capital Territory. We expect you to go out there determined to excel and return with remarkable results,” Wike said.
He assured the athletes that their efforts would be recognized and celebrated upon their return.
“We are eagerly waiting to receive the medals you will win. The more victories you bring back, the greater the pride you will give us,” he added.
The Minister also advised the coaches to equip the athletes with the right skills and motivation to perform at their best during the festival. “We urge the coaches to give their all in training the athletes. Your guidance will reflect in their performance and bring glory to the FCT,” Wike noted.
The Director of Sports for the FCT Administration (FCTA), Luka Istifanus, confirmed that thorough preparations have been made to ensure the success of the FCT team at the festival. He encouraged the athletes to give their best performance and make the FCT proud.
The Torch of Unity will continue its nationwide journey, reinforcing the festival’s core values of unity, strength, and sportsmanship.
This initiative underscores the FCT Administration’s commitment to sports development and fostering national unity through competitive excellence.
