By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi
In a stirring call to action that blended encouragement with ambition, Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Monday charged the state’s athletes at the 22nd National Sports Festival to break past records and make the Sunshine State proud.
The Governor, who had attended the festival’s grand opening at the MKO Abiola International Stadium on Sunday, made an unannounced visit to the contingent’s camp at Babcock University, catching the athletes off guard but sparking visible excitement and renewed motivation across the team.
Addressing the athletes, Aiyedatiwa urged them to surpass Ondo’s historic best 4th-place finish and cement their names in sporting history.
“At some point, Ondo State regularly finished between sixth and 13th positions; we’ve even come fourth as our highest. You must not go below that.
“We are here to encourage you, to identify with you, and to let you know that we are behind you in every way,” the Governor declared passionately.
Highlighting his personal commitment to sports and its role in youth development, the Governor emphasized the administration’s continued investment in sporting infrastructure and athlete welfare.
“As a lover of sports, I am praying for you that no harm shall come your way,” he assured the team.
He also reminded them that the festival could open doors to professional sports careers, urging them to remain focused, fair, and fearless in their quest for glory.
Aiyedatiwa challenged the team to not only aim high but also to take on dominant forces like Delta State, long-time champions of the festival, and the host state, Ogun.
“You have the strength, skill, and spirit. Go out there and show the nation what Ondo is made of,” he said.
The athletes responded with gratitude and determination, applauding the Governor’s personal engagement and promising to return with a haul of medals.
They credited the administration’s support as a key morale booster and pledged to give their all in every contest.
At the festival’s opening ceremony the previous day, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, underscored the role of sports in fostering national unity, calling it a “force that binds and strengthens our diversity.”
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, welcoming the athletes and dignitaries, praised the federal government’s commitment to sports under the Renewed Hope Agenda and encouraged all competitors to embrace the spirit of fair play and camaraderie.
Running from May 16 to 30, the 2025 National Sports Festival will showcase talent across a wide spectrum of disciplines, from athletics and swimming to wrestling and basketball.
