By Sanee Yarima
As the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival is around the corner, the Touch of Unity arrived in Taraba State on Tuesday 8th April 2025.
The Festival scheduled to take place in Ogun State, officially titled “Gateway Games”, was initially planned for November 2024 but was later postponed to January 2025.
The event was also shifted to 16th-30th May 2025, aimed to address recommendations from the technical committee and to align with the new vision for sports development in Nigeria.
The main venue for the festival would be the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, the state capital.
Receiving the symbolic Torch of Unity from officials of the National Sports Commission at the entrance of the TY Danjuma Government House Jalingo, the capital city of Taraba, Governor Agbu Kefas reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sports development, as the state gears up for the upcoming National event.
The governor, who described sports as a powerful unifying factor, commended the National Sports Commission for its role in fostering national cohesion through sporting activities across the nation.
Additionally, Dr Agbu Kefas while assuring the participation of the state in the National Sports Festival, also highlighted its growing reputation in athletics.
Delighted with the performance of the state during the 21st edition of the festival held in Asaba, the Delta State capital, the Governor announced that this year, they are prepared to present a stronger contingent and assured his government’s commitment to promoting national unity and empowering the youth through sports.
The event also featured remarks from the State Director of Sports, George Haruna Shitta, who expressed optimism about Taraba’s performance prospects at the Ogun 2025.
Shitta lauded the dedication of the state’s athletes and reiterated the administration’s unwavering support.
Mr. Mbora Ikana who led the delegation from the Federal Ministry of Sports Development, described the torch as a powerful emblem of peace and unity.
He urged states to leverage the festival as a platform to engage youth and strengthen national integration.
In an interview with Sports journalists, the state Commissioner of Youth and Sports Development, Amb. Joseph Joshua praised the passion and love for sports and youth empowerment of Governor Agbu Kefas.
Amb. Joshua also appreciated the governor for his unwavering support for his ministry and assured him of their commitment to making the state proud, while he commended the state’s athletes for their resilience and commitment to reciprocating the state government’s gesture by securing medals.
The ceremony attracted several dignitaries and senior government officials, including the Speaker of the Taraba State House of Assembly, Rt. Kizito Bonzena, Secretary to the Government of the State, Barrister Gebon Kataps, the Permanent Secretary of the state Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Mrs. Indo Markson, among others.
Also notable at the event were the Taraba Commissioners of Environment and Climate Change, Hon. Aishat Barde, and the member representing Nguruje Constituency from Sardauna LGA of the state, Hon. Nelson Len among others.
