Benue receives National Sports Festival torch

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue received the Torch of Unity for the National Sports Festival on Wednesday. The event is set to take place in Ogun from May 16 to 30. Benue Deputy Governor, Sam Ode, accepted the torch from the National Sports Commission delegation on behalf of Alia. The governor described the visit as […]

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue received the Torch of Unity for the National Sports Festival on Wednesday. The event is set to take place in Ogun from May 16 to 30.

Benue Deputy Governor, Sam Ode, accepted the torch from the National Sports Commission delegation on behalf of Alia.

The governor described the visit as a symbol of unity that would bring sports lovers together and strengthen national cohesion despite diverse backgrounds.

He praised the festival’s organisers, stating that the event would foster peace and help discover new sporting talents.

Alia highlighted his administration’s innovations in the sports sector, particularly in infrastructure development.

“No previous Benue governor has invested in sports as we have. We have allocated significant resources, especially in football.

“We see sports not just as recreation but as a business. Investors should explore opportunities in the state’s sports sector,” he said.

The government plans to expand into sports such as volleyball, handball, and table tennis to identify talents who can represent the state.

NSC delegation leader, Ikana Mbora, said presenting the torch officially invited Benue to the festival and marked the countdown to the event.