President Bola Tinubu has assured to unite the country through various sporting activities which are currently being heavily funded by the Federal Government.
By Emmanuel Afonne
President Bola Tinubu has assured to unite the country through various sporting activities which are currently being heavily funded by the Federal Government.
Tinubu said this at the presentation of the King’s Baton Relay ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games scheduled to hold between July 23 and Aug. 2 in Glasgow Scotland.
The President represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, said the present administration was committed to uniting Nigeria through sports.
“We reiterate our dedication to promoting peace through sports.
“The arrival of the King’s Baton from June 27 to July 2, is a testament of our commitment to the Commonwealth family and the ideals it represents.
“The arrival of King’s baton is more than just a relay, it is an opportunity to showcase our rich cultural heritage, vibrant diversity and boundless potential.
“It allows us to reiterate our dedication to peace, understanding our sustainable development through the unifying power of Sports.
“We recognise the symbolism of this baton, much like the Olympic Tourch, ignites a collective passion and shared anticipation and the renewed determination as we look forward to the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.
“Our athletes have consistently demonstrated their prowess on the global stage and bringing glory and honour to our country.
“Nigeria has continued to shine since our first participation in 1950 and we are determined to build on this successes.”
Tinubu commended the leadership of the National Sports Commission (NSC), noting that their professionalism has placed Nigeria as the leading sporting nation in Africa.
” This has also made sports as one of the key drivers of the economy in line with best international standard as expertly driven by the National Sports Commission under my watch.
“I commend the NSC under the leadership of Shehu Dikko and the NOC and other members of the planning committee for this event, for their hardwork which ensured that we didn’t only host but to infuse it with our national spirit.
He urged the athletes to train hard and uphold the spirit of sportsmanship, as they carry the hopes of 250 million Nigerians.