Lagos State governor, Babatunde Fashola (SAN) yesterday received the torch for the 18th National Sports Festival at the State House in Marina from the zonal coordinator of the South West Zone of the National Sports Commission, NSC, Dr. Steve Olarinoye, who was the torch bearer.

The torch, which was brought into Lagos from Ogun State through the waterways, arrived the CMS Jetty at about 11 a.m. amidst singing, drumming and dancing by members of the Lagos State Supporters Club who were on hand to give the event a carnival-like atmosphere.

Receiving the torch, Governor Fashola said the event marked a significant shift from the traditional torch relay. "For the first time in the history of the National Sports Festival, the torch of unity is being taken through the waterways.

This shows the ingenuity of the Local Organising Committee and demonstration of the enormous possibilities that abound in Lagos," the governor said.

The governor handed the torch to his deputy who is also chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Mrs. Victoria Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire

The torch is expected to go through Epe, Ikorodu, Ikeja and Badagry before making a final berth at the Teslim Balogun Stadium on November 27 for the opening ceremony.