Borno State marked its commitment to national unity and sports development by hosting the Unity Torch ceremony on Thursday, April 10, 2025, ahead of the National Sports Festival 2025 in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The event in Maiduguri saw the convergence of government officials, sports stakeholders, and enthusiastic youth representatives.

The symbolic handover of the torch commenced with local athletes presenting it to Alhaji Bura Mustapha, the Executive Secretary of the Borno State Sports Council.

The torch then journeyed through the hands of the Honourable Commissioner for Youth, Sports and Poverty Alleviation, Comrade Saina Buba, and Mrs Ikana Mbora, the Torch of Unity Leader representing the National Sports Commission, before being received by the Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Bukar Tijjani, on behalf of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum.

Hon. Bukar Tijjani, upon receiving the torch, assured the state’s full participation and financial backing for its athletes at the Abeokuta Games.

“On behalf of His Excellency, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, I want to assure you that Borno State will fully participate in the 2025 National Sports Festival. We are committed to supporting our athletes and promoting peace and unity through sports,” he affirmed.

Mrs Ikana Mbora, representing the Federal Government, highlighted the significance of the torch’s nationwide tour.

“We are taking this torch around the country as a symbol of unity and a call for collective participation in the upcoming sports festival. The final presentation will be held on May 14, 2025, in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State,” she stated, while also commending Borno State for the warm reception and efficient coordination of the event.

Honourable Commissioner Comrade Saina Buba expressed his gratitude for Governor Zulum’s unwavering support for sports in the state.

“The support of Governor Zulum is what keeps the sports sector moving forward in Borno. Our athletes are improving, and the state is gaining recognition in national competitions,” he noted.

The federal delegation also included Mr Okere Emmanuel, the Zonal Coordinator of the National Sports Commission for the North East.

The ceremony featured a symbolic relay of the Unity Torch and a strong display of solidarity from local athletes and youth, underscoring Borno State’s continued engagement with national sporting events as a tool for peacebuilding and youth empowerment.