Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has described the National Sports Festival (NSF) as a powerful force for national reconciliation and unity, especially in the aftermath of Nigeria’s Civil War.
In a statement titled “A Triumph of the Spirit,” issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, on Tuesday in Abeokuta, Obasanjo said the festival, since its inception in 1973, has served a higher purpose than mere athletic competition.
“Since its inception in Lagos in 1973, the festival has been more than a competition. It has served as a beacon of unity, rebuilding the bonds of peace and mutual respect after the Civil War,” he said.
Obasanjo made the remarks while commending athletes participating in the 22nd edition of the festival, the Gateway Games, which is being held in Abeokuta. He noted that the event continues to be a platform for fostering national cohesion and friendships across cultural boundaries.
“Today, it will continue to bring people together, fostering friendships across cultural divides and preparing athletes for future challenges,” the former president stated.
He urged participants and spectators alike to look beyond the medal tables and state rankings, emphasizing that the true spirit of the games lies in values such as perseverance, courage, and the joy of participation.
“The sacrifice, determination, and grit—the qualities that brought each of you here—are victories in their own right,” Obasanjo added. “For some, the journey to compete may not lead to a podium finish, but the effort and resilience shown are monumental achievements.”
Obasanjo also reiterated that sports possess a unique ability to transcend political and linguistic divides. “As we gather in Abeokuta for the 22nd National Sports Festival, let us reflect on the essence of these Games,” he said, calling on Nigerians to embrace the inclusive spirit the NSF represents.
He concluded his remarks with a prayer that the games bring joy, unity, and the triumph of the human spirit, symbolizing the enduring power of sports to heal, inspire, and unite the nation.
