…As Gov Okpebholo reiterates support for sports devt
Edo State has received the Unity Torch ahead of the 22nd National Sports Festival scheduled for Ogun State from May 16 to 30, 2025, with Governor Monday Okpebholo reaffirming his administration’s strong commitment to the advancement of sports.
The Governor, represented by his Deputy, Hon Dennis Idahosa, gave the assurance during a brief, but significant ceremony held on Wednesday at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City.
Accepting the Unity Torch on behalf of Governor Okpebholo, the Deputy Governor confirmed that the Governor had not only endorsed Edo State’s full participation in the Ogun Games but had also approved necessary arrangements to ensure the contingent’s proper preparation for the national event.
Hon Idahosa welcomed the delegation from the National Sports Commission led by Mrs Ikana Mbora and commended their dedication to the ongoing Unity Torch relay, which began with a formal flag-off by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on March 25, 2025.
Mrs Mbora, who arrived with the torch and her team at the Edo State Sports Commission premises around 11 a.m., explained that the symbolic relay had traversed all states in the North-Central, North-East, North-West, and South-East zones before reaching the South-South.
Within the South-South, the torch moved through Cross River, Bayelsa, and Delta states before arriving in Benin City, marking the conclusion of its journey in the zone.
She added that the next destination for the Unity Torch would be Ondo State.
Also present at the reception was the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon Amadin Desmond Enabulele, along with board members of the Commission.
Hon Enabulele expressed confidence in the readiness of Team Edo, assuring that they were fully prepared to make the state proud at the forthcoming Games.
