It was indeed a nostalgic feelings for Hameed Adio lifting the Torch of Unity at the opening ceremony of the 26th edition of the Nigeria University Games Association (NUGA) Games holding at the University of Lagos.
The World class sprinter who is also an alumni of the University had earlier received invitation from the School to perform the symbolic task as the institution welcomes over 70 Universities across the country.
Speaking exclusively to www.owosports.com.ng, the veteran sports journalist said it was a great honor to have held the Torch of Unity 44 years after leading the University to the 1978 NUGA games success.
“It really was a great honor to have done that. It reminded of my running days especially when UNILAG hosted the NUGA games 1978 which I excelled by winning the 100m, 200m and 4×100m gold medals”
A consummate Sports journalist and administrator, the retired General Manager of NTA Abuja said the 44-years feelings was really enlivened in him.
“The joy was so enormous. It’s still the same joy I felt that time that I felt today having the whole world watching one carrying the torch of Unity. It’s really symbolic”.
Recently appointed as the Chairman of Kwara Television Board, the legendary Broadcaster appreciated the management of the school for finding him worthy of the honour,adding that such gesture indicates ‘the labour of heroes past shall never be in vain’.
“I felt particularly happy and grateful to the management of the University of Lagos led by Professor Ogundipe who thought it fit to bestow that honour on me 44years after I left the Institution and that’s a clear demonstration that labour of heroes past shall never be forgotten”
Former Director of Sports in and Commissioner for Youth and Sports in Kwara State, Adio was also also the Captain of Nigeria contingent to the Moscow 1980 Olympics.
With about 17 sporting events, The NUGA games, which started on March 16 will end on March 27.
