In a vibrant display of hope, ambition, and sporting spirit, the Nasarawa State Government on Friday held a grand send-off ceremony for its 300-strong contingent heading to Abeokuta, Ogun State, for the highly anticipated 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged ‘Gateway Games 2024’.
The ceremony, held at the Government Special Schools, Lafia, marked the end of an intensive 10-day training camp. It was graced by dignitaries, sports officials, and press representatives, with Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Kwanta Yakubu, leading the charge.
Addressing the athletes, Hon. Kwanta praised their determination and discipline, urging them to stay focused as they prepare to battle for glory among over 10,000 participants from across Nigeria.
“I have no doubt that you will represent Nasarawa State with pride and distinction,” he said, while commending Governor Abdullahi Sule for his unwavering support, including funding the camp and facilitating full preparation.
The Commissioner also reaffirmed the State’s commitment to sports, noting that facilities, equipment, and welfare arrangements were in place to boost athletes’ performance.
Team Nasarawa is set to compete in 22 events ranging from Athletics, Boxing, and Chess to traditional games like Ayo and Dambe, with 160 athletes, 32 coaches, medical and security personnel, sports officials, and journalists forming the contingent.
Head of Coaches, Bashir Musa Bassey, and Team Captain, Beauty Timothy, both expressed gratitude to the State Government and promised to return with medals and moments of pride.
The send-off was attended by top government officials including the Chief Whip of the State Assembly, Hon. Larry Ven-Bawa, and Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Adamu Alhassan.
The Gateway Games 2024 kicks off officially on Sunday, May 18th, 2025, at the iconic MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, where President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other dignitaries will declare the festival open.
Delta State, the defending champions from the 2022 edition held in Asaba, will be watching closely as a fired-up Team Nasarawa aims to shake the medal table and make history.
