President Muhammadu Buhari was on Saturday handed the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games baton in the Nigerian capital, Abuja.
The baton, carrying Her Majesty, the Queen of England and Head of the Commonwealth’s message of goodwill, has been on a 90,000 mile, 72-country journey to end at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Speaking during the brief ceremony, which took place at the State House Conference Hall, President Buhari, who was represented by the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo (SAN), said the docking of the relay baton in Nigeria reminded Commonwealth member countries of their brotherhood and friendship.
The President said, “It’s a very special pleasure to welcome the Queen’s Baton Relay to Nigeria today. This much loved tradition which precedes every commonwealth games.”
He commended the Nigerian relay team for their cheerfulness and dedication to this tour covering thousands of miles, the organizing committees for all their hard work in seamlessly delivering the relay event and the athletes who will bring excitement and thrill to millions at this festival of sport and culture.
Minister of Sports and Youth Development, Sunday Dare who disclosed that Nigeria was the first African country to host the Queen’s Baton Relay, added that the event signified unity, peace and love among the member nations.
