President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Sunday, officially declared open the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival tagged “Gateway Games 2024,” taking place in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, the President called on all participating athletes to compete with integrity and uphold the values of true sportsmanship throughout the tournament.
He praised the organisers of the event, particularly Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), and his deputy, for their role in promoting the Renewed Hope agenda through a robust national sports economic framework.
In his address at the grand opening ceremony, President Tinubu expressed confidence that the symbolic Torch of Unity, lit at the commencement of the Games, would serve not only as a beacon of national cohesion but also as a reminder of the unifying power of sports.
He highlighted the role sports have played over the decades in enhancing Nigeria’s global image and prestige.
The President also commended the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for the warm hospitality extended to athletes and delegates, acknowledging the state’s continued legacy as a hub of knowledge, innovation, and national aspiration.
He noted that Ogun State, often referred to as the Gateway State, has solidified its reputation as a beacon of national excellence.
With over 10,000 athletes and coaches currently in Abeokuta for the festival, President Tinubu assured all participants of their safety. He reaffirmed that stringent and effective security measures, coordinated by the federal government in partnership with the NSC, have been implemented to ensure a peaceful and secure environment throughout the duration of the event.
In his welcome address, Governor Dapo Abiodun reiterated that hosting the National Sports Festival reflects his administration’s unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and national development through sports.
The Gateway Games 2024 is expected to serve as a platform for nurturing athletic talents, fostering unity, and promoting economic and cultural integration among the Nigerian populace.
