The VC said, “Sports is not a do-or-die affair. Participating in competitions brings joy, happiness, unity, peace and love among athletes.’’
Mr Fagite encouraged the athletes to give their best and aim for the best.
Katsina had not won a gold medal at the NSF since 2011.
Mr Babatunde, who gave the assurance at the weekend, said the state would be focusing more on its areas of strength, particularly in the aquatic sport.
Mr Putin is a keen judo player and has reached the level of black belt in the sport.
A second judo player has withdrawn from the Olympic Games ahead of a scheduled match with an Israeli opponent, officials in Tokyo said on Monday.
