At least 23 states have arrived in Ogun State ahead of the official commencement of the 2024 National Sports Festival, tagged “Gateway Games,” scheduled to begin on Sunday, May 18.
Director General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, confirmed the arrival of the contingents on Saturday during an interview in Abeokuta.
“There are already 23 states in camp,” Olopade said. “Their feeding and welfare are top-notch and seamless. I just finished speaking with officials from four states and they’re full of praise for the state’s preparations.”
The biennial sporting event, regarded as Nigeria’s foremost grassroots talent-hunting platform, is being hosted by Ogun State for the first time in over a decade. Olopade expressed confidence that this edition would set new standards for future festivals.
“There are strong signs that this will be the best-organised sports festival in the history of Nigeria. Globally, accommodation and feeding are the first key indicators, and we’ve gotten those right,” he added.
Final touches were being put in place at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Kuto, Abeokuta, which will host the opening ceremony. Cultural troupes were seen rehearsing at the main bowl in preparation for Sunday’s event.
Local sports enthusiasts have expressed optimism about the festival’s impact. An Abeokuta-based sports journalist, Abiodun Alabi, said he believes the games will uncover new athletic talents and leave lasting economic and infrastructural benefits.
“The festival will definitely produce future stars for Nigeria at the international stage. Plus, the upgraded MKO Abiola Stadium is now fit to host major continental events,” Alabi said. “Three more events have already been scheduled to follow the Gateway Games, and that speaks volumes.”
Similarly, sports fan Michael Adesanya noted that beyond sports, the festival plays a vital role in promoting national unity.
“We expect quality competitions and talent discovery, but I also hope the event remains non-political,” Adesanya said. “Let it be about the athletes, and let the best be nurtured to replace the older generation.”