Gateway Games 2024 opens in Ogun with music, colour


The 22nd edition of Nigeria’s National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games 2024, kicked off in grand style on Sunday, May 18, at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The opening ceremony was a vibrant showcase of culture, sportsmanship, and music, featuring electrifying performances by Nigerian music stars Asa and Davido. Asa opened the event with a soulful rendition of the national and state anthems, while Davido thrilled the audience with a high-energy performance that set the tone for the evening.

Vice President Kashim Shettima declared the Games officially open, alongside Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun. Other dignitaries in attendance included Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and several state governors.
The event also featured a colourful parade of athletes representing all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, celebrating Nigeria’s unity in diversity.
With more than 15,000 athletes and officials expected to participate, the Gateway Games 2024 is set to deliver two weeks of intense competition and cultural celebration—strengthening national unity through sport.