Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has said that the National Sport Festival (NSF) has over the years served as a beacon of unity, rebuilding the bonds of peace and mutual respect after the Civil War.
In a statement titled “A Triumph of the Spirit,” Obasanjo’s Special Assistant on Media, Mr Kehinde Akinyemi, quoted the former President as saying that the sports festival would continue to bring people together, foster friendships across cultural divides.
Obasanjo eulogised the delegates to the Gateway Games, saying sports transcend politics and language barriers.
“As we gather in Abeokuta for the 22nd National Sports Festival, let us reflect on the essence of these Games.
“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.
The former President emphasised that the true spirit of the games lied beyond medals or state rankings.
“It is found in courage, perseverance and the joy of participation,” he said, adding that the thrill of competition was not about the scoreboard but about embracing the love of sport itself.
“The sacrifice, determination, and grit – the qualities that brought each of you here are victories in their own right,” he said.
Obasanjo noted that for some, the journey to compete may not lead to a podium finish, but the effort and resilience shown are monumental achievements.
“These Gateway Games celebrate that indomitable spirit, the drive to push through pain, overcome obstacles, and pursue excellence,” he said.
Obasanjo prayed that the games bring joy, unity, and the triumph of the human spirit. “May these games bring joy, unity, and the triumph of the human,” he said.
