The United Nations in Nigeria observed the 2024 International Day of Sport for Development and Peace on Friday, April 12, 2024, in Abuja, aligning with global efforts to recognize the role of sports in fostering development and peace.
The event, organized by the Peace and Development team in the Resident Coordinator’s Office, in collaboration with UN Volunteers and the UN Information Centre (UNIC), featured a variety of activities aimed at promoting the positive impact of sports. Among the activities were a football game, aerobics, step boards, battle rope challenge, board games, and table tennis.
Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, the Resident Coordinator a.i. and Country Representative of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Nigeria, underscored the transformative power of sports during the commemoration.
“Sport possesses the potential to bridge divides, promote gender equality, empower youth, and foster social cohesion,” Dr. Mulombo stated.
The event not only celebrated the universal appeal of sports but also highlighted its ability to serve as a tool for achieving broader development objectives, including promoting health, education, and peace-building initiatives.
The International Day of Sport for Development and Peace serves as a reminder of the significant role that sports can play in advancing sustainable development and fostering a culture of peace worldwide. Through collective efforts and continued advocacy, the UN aims to harness the potential of sports as a catalyst for positive change in communities globally.
