National Sports Festival kicks off in Abeokuta with grand opening ceremony
The crème de la crème of Nigerian sports will converge in Abeokuta this Sunday as the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, tagged “Gateway Games Ogun 2024,” kicks off in grand style at the M.K.O Abiola Stadium.
Vice President Kashim Shettima will officially declare the festival open during a colourful ceremony expected to showcase Nigeria’s cultural diversity and athletic excellence. The festival, a symbol of national unity and sporting pride since 1973, returns to Ogun State for the first time since 2006.
Governor Dapo Abiodun has assured Nigerians that Ogun State is fully prepared to host over 10,000 athletes, officials, and guests from across the country, promising a seamless and memorable experience.
The National Sports Commission, led by Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade, described the event as more than tradition—calling it a strategic platform for talent discovery and national integration through sport.
This year’s edition will feature a symbolic “38th state”—the Invited Junior Athletes (IJA)—a team of promising young stars participating independently to spotlight the future of Nigerian athletics.
Athletes from all 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and the IJA team will compete in 33 sporting disciplines, making this one of the largest editions in the festival’s history.
Beyond competition, Gateway Games Ogun 2024 will celebrate Nigeria’s cultural heritage, with traditional music, dance, and art on display daily, and vibrant performances during the opening and closing ceremonies.
Events will be held across key venues including the Alake Sports Centre, Remo Stars Stadium, and MKO Abiola Stadium, with the Games Village situated at Babcock University to ensure comfort and security for all participants.
