FG Reaffirms Drive for Unity, Inclusion Through Sports Partnerships

FG Reaffirms Drive for Unity, Inclusion Through Sports Partnerships

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Federal Government has restated its commitment to deepening partnerships that foster national unity, inclusion and social development through sports, as part of broader efforts to strengthen governance and citizen engagement.

This assurance was given on Wednesday by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, while receiving the leadership of the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria during a courtesy visit to the ministry in Abuja.

Speaking during the meeting, the minister highlighted the importance of collaboration between government institutions and credible organisations, noting that such partnerships remain vital in achieving national development goals beyond the traditional scope of public administration.

He explained that while the Ministry of Interior is primarily tasked with ensuring internal security, safeguarding citizenship integrity and improving institutional efficiency, its engagement with groups like LGAN contributes meaningfully to social cohesion and inclusive development.

Tunji-Ojo commended the association for its sustained efforts in promoting women’s participation in golf, describing its impact as far-reaching in building discipline, leadership and international exposure for Nigerian athletes.

The minister also used the occasion to outline ongoing reforms across agencies under his supervision, pointing to improvements in passport processing and the introduction of modern e-gate systems at international airports.

According to him, these measures are designed to enhance service delivery and rebuild public trust in government institutions.

Earlier, President of LGAN, Lami Onayi Ahmed, expressed gratitude to the minister for granting the delegation audience, despite his tight schedule. She stated the association’s mandate as the umbrella body for women golfers in Nigeria, focused on expanding participation, building capacity and promoting international engagement.

Ahmed said the association remains committed to creating opportunities for women in sports, while also contributing to national development through structured programmes and partnerships.

Members of the delegation praised the minister’s reform agenda, particularly efforts to modernise processes within the ministry, noting that the changes align with global best practices and Nigeria’s development aspirations.

In his closing remarks, Tunji-Ojo assured the association of government support for initiatives aimed at empowering women and advancing sports development nationwide. He urged members to continue serving as ambassadors of the country, leveraging sports as a unifying force capable of driving national pride and socio-economic progress.