By Solomon Nwoke, Abeokuta
The Vice President, Kashim Shettima will Sunday lead the country’s top sports officials to officially declare National Sports Festival (NSF) tagged Gateway Games open.
The nation’s foremost multi-sport events, the NSF, will be expected to take off in grand style with a colourful ceremony that promises cultural splendour and athletic excellence.
The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has also assured the nation that the state is fully prepared to host athletes, officials, and guests from across the country for the next two weeks of national unity through sports.
The leadership of the National Sports Commission (NSC), led by Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade have emphasized that the National Sports Festival is not merely a tradition but a strategic platform to discover emerging talents and strengthen national unity through the power of sports.
This year’s edition breaks new ground with the introduction of a symbolic “38th state”—the Invited Junior Athletes (IJA)—a team of exceptional young talents competing independently to spotlight Nigeria’s future champions.
Over 10,000 athletes from all the 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and the IJA team will compete in 33 sports, making this edition one of the most extensive in the festival’s rich history. It stands as a celebration not just of athletic talent, but of the enduring spirit of the Nigerian people.
Beyond the competition, Gateway Games Ogun 2024 will showcase Nigeria’s diverse cultural heritage. From the pageantry of the opening and closing ceremonies to daily exhibitions of traditional music, dance, and art, the festival promises to be a grand celebration of the nation’s identity.
Events will take place across multiple venues, including the Alake Sports Centre, MKO Abiola Stadium, Remo Stars Stadium, and other key facilities. The Games Village will be hosted at Babcock University, providing a comfortable and secure environment for athletes and officials.
MKO Abiola Sports Complex, Abeokuta
