Ogun ready to host National Sports Festival, says Sports Commission
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has officially declared Ogun State ready to host the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, following an extensive inspection of competition venues, logistical hubs, and athlete accommodations across the state.
A delegation from the Commission, led by its Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, visited key facilities including the MKO Abiola International Stadium, Alake Sports Centre, Remo Stars Sports Complex, and Babcock University, which will serve as the athletes’ village.
Tagged Gateway Games 2024, the festival is scheduled to take place from May 16 to 30 and will bring together thousands of athletes and officials from across the country. Participants will compete in more than 32 sporting disciplines, making it one of the largest and most inclusive editions of the Games in its history.
Speaking after the tour, Mallam Dikko expressed strong confidence in Ogun State’s preparedness, describing the level of commitment and infrastructure as exemplary.
“What I have seen here in Ogun is more than infrastructure. It is intent, readiness, and ambition. Ogun is set to deliver a brilliant National Sports Festival that will raise the bar and define the standard for future games across Nigeria,” he said.
Governor Dapo Abiodun, who received the NSC delegation, reaffirmed the state’s dedication to delivering a successful and historic event.
“We consider it an honour and a responsibility to host this Festival. Every facility, every logistic, every detail has been prepared to showcase the best of Ogun and the promise of Nigeria,” the governor stated. “The Gateway Games will be a model of what’s possible when states align with national vision.”
As Nigeria’s apex sports regulatory body, the National Sports Commission continues to play a leading role in coordinating nationwide sports development, enforcing standards, and fostering intergovernmental collaboration. The success of the Gateway Games is expected to serve as a blueprint for future initiatives under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
