The Executive Governor of Imo State, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma, on Monday, April 28, 2025, received the National Sports Festival Torch on behalf of the Imo State Government, the people of Imo State, and the sports community.
The symbolic torch, signifying unity, participation, and victory, arrived at the Imo State Government House, Owerri, amidst a large and colourful entourage comprising sportsmen and women from the Imo State Sports Commission and the Ministry of Sports.
The Imo State Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, formally received the torch from 1996 Olympic Games Gold medallist, Mobi Oparaku upon its arrival before presenting it to Governor Uzodinma during a brief but lively ceremony.
Oparaku, a right back during his playing days had led the staff of the Imo Sports Commission and the Ministry of Sports in a procession to the Imo Government House from the front of the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri bearing the National Sports Festival torch.
In his remarks after receiving the torch, Governor Uzodinma expressed deep pride and solidarity with the Imo State sports community.
“On behalf of the government and the good people of Imo State, I receive this Torch of Unity and solidarity — a torch that symbolizes our participation and our aspirations for victory,” the Governor said.
He encouraged Imo athletes to compete with excellence and determination at the forthcoming festival, adding: “I use this opportunity to encourage all our participants and representatives to go all out there, compete, and bring back medals — medals that will represent your excellent status. So you go and win to the glory of God.”
The National Sports Festival is scheduled to take place next month in Ogun State from May 16th to 30th where Team Imo will be looking to surpass its previous performance and set a new record of achievements.
