By CRS Deputy Governor’s Press Unit, Calabar.
GOVERNOR OTU CHARGES TEAM CROSS RIVER TO EXCEL AT OGUN 2025 NATIONAL SPORTS FESTIVAL.
The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Otu, has urged the State’s Athletes to strive for excellence and bring honor to the state at the 22nd National Sports Festival, scheduled to hold in Ogun State from May 16 to 30, 2025.
Represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, Governor Otu delivered the charge during a symbolic ceremony at the U.J. Esuene Stadium in Calabar on Wednesday, as the State received the Torch of Unity, an official emblem of the Games, tagged the “Gateway Games.”
Governor Otu reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to grassroots sports development and the creation of a nurturing environment for talent to flourish.
“Cross River State has a proud history in sports, especially in athletics and football. Our administration is committed to reviving this legacy by supporting our athletes and investing in infrastructure,” Odey stated.
Acknowledging recent setbacks, including at the Niger Delta Sports Festival, the Governor emphasized that the state remains focused on regaining its reputation as a powerhouse in Nigerian sports.
“We are not just going to participate; we are going to compete with the goal of making Cross River proud,” he added.
Leading the Torch of Unity delegation, Mrs. Mbora Ikana of the National Sports Commission (NSC) noted that the torch relay was flagged off by President Bola Tinubu on March 25, 2025, and is making its way through all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
She revealed that Cross River is the first state in the South-South zone to receive the torch, marking the beginning of its journey through the region.
Mrs. Ikana highlighted the unifying role of sports and its potential to combat youth restiveness and promote peace nationwide.
During the event, members of the Cross River State House of Assembly and key government officials, including Chief of Staff Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, Special Adviser to the Governor Barr. Ekpenyong Akiba, and Special Adviser on Sports Development Mr. Ekanem Ekpenyong, participated in the ceremonial passing of the Torch of Unity to the Deputy Governor, who accepted it on behalf of Governor Otu.
