As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence Anniversary, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon. Adeyinka Adeboye, has urged citizens to embrace unity, patriotism, and renewed energy in building a stronger nation through sports.
In a goodwill message, Adeboye paid tribute to the sacrifices of Nigeria’s founding fathers, emphasizing the need to reignite the spirit of nationhood.
“Today, we reflect on our journey—the struggles, the triumphs, and the dreams yet to be fulfilled. At 65, Nigeria is still young in spirit.
We owe it to those who built this country to rise above division and realize our boundless potential,” he said.
Highlighting the role of sports as a tool for unity, Adeboye described the Independence celebration as a symbolic threshold for a new chapter in Nigeria’s sports development under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Sports has always been one of Nigeria’s greatest unifiers. From grassroots leagues to global tournaments, it is time we invest with purpose, nurture talent across communities, and give youth hope.
Our future will be defined by what we build, not what we lament,” he noted.
The SSA further pledged government commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure, developing training pathways, and fostering public-private partnerships to ensure every child with a dream has access to facilities and opportunities.
He also appealed to corporate organizations, philanthropists, and state governments to support the federal government’s vision:
“The government has set the foundation. Now we need your investment, creativity, and resources. Together, we can turn sports into a national engine of pride, unity, and opportunity.”
Adeboye concluded by affirming that Nigeria at 65 must not only celebrate independence but also define it:
“Let this year be the moment Nigeria begins to run again, to compete again, and to win again. And in sports, we shall lead the way.”
