NSF 2024, a celebration to build stronger Nigeria, says Gov. Abiodun

By Abiodun Lawal

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has declared that the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, tagged ‘Gateway Games’ 2024 is not just a sporting event, rather a celebration to build a stronger Nigeria.

Abiodun made the assertion call on Sunday in Abeokuta while speaking at the opening of the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, tagged ‘Gateway Games’ 2024.

The governor who urged Nigerians to use sporting activities to foster peaceful co-existence in the country affirmed his commitment to building a future where talent would be nurtured, hardwork rewarded, while the state remained a beacon of excellence.

“Our bid to host this event is on our unshakable belief in the transformative power of sports, and as a catalyst for socioeconomic development and youth empowerment.

“The reason behind the formation of the biennial event is to promote unity and celebrate the nation’s rich diversity through sports,” he said.

The governor said that the state decided to host the event to use it as a catalyst to grow the state and also serve as youth empowerment.

He lauded President Bola Tinubu for supporting the state towards a successful hosting of the event.

The governor commended everyone that contributed to the planning of the festival, adding that the sporting event would serve as another opportunity to discover new talents.

He assured that the state government had deployed formidable security mechanisms for a hitch free event.

Abiodun urged the athletes not to be desperate about winning medals but competing with integrity and honour.

Welcoming the participants, the Commissioner for Sports, Mr Wasiu Isiaka, noted that the state had put in place world class facilities to the delight of the participants.

Isiaka urged the participating states to feel at home , saying that everything had been put in place for them to enjoy their stay in the state.

The commissioner stated that the state governor had personally taken his time to ensure that all that was needed for the successful hosting of the festival was provided.
The biennial multi-sport event which features 33 sports, started on May 16 and will end on May 30.

Those present at the colourful opening ceremony of the event include Vice- President Kashim Shettima, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and Prof. Wole Soyinka

Also present were Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, Imo, Osun and Kogi counterparts, Sen. Hope Uzodimma, Ademola Adeleke and Usman Ododo.

The deputy governor of Ekiti State, Monisade Afuye, former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr. Dimeji Bankole, former Ogun State governors, Olusegun Osoba and Sen. Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East Senatorial District, Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun were also in attendance.

Some lawmaker both at the state and national levels also graced the event.

The 22nd NSF is taking place in Abeokuta, between May 16 and May 30 with athletes to compete in 23 sports events.

NAN