The 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games 2024, officially kicked off in spectacular fashion, marked by a vibrant opening ceremony featuring rich cultural displays and electrifying performances from music stars such as Davido and Asa.
Amid the excitement, the Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, assured participating state delegations of an event that will redefine the standards of the festival in both execution and impact.
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Speaking at a meeting with state delegates following the ceremony, Olopade underscored the core values driving the festival, love, focus, discipline, and unity—emphasizing that Gateway Games 2024 will not only celebrate athleticism but also promote integrity and sportsmanship.
“Let medals be won with honor, not by crook,” Olopade stated, stressing the importance of fair competition and true sports values.
The DG credited the transformation in Nigerian sports to the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. “We are where we are today—revamping, reshaping, and resetting our sports ecosystem—because of the vision of Mr. President,” he said.
“He is the reason why the National Sports Festival now wears a new look of world-class standard.”
He also praised the Chairman of the NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko, for his relentless dedication to the festival’s success. “Mallam Dikko has shown immense commitment and love for this project. That spirit must cascade down to every athlete and official.”
Olopade further expressed deep appreciation to Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for his vital role in mobilizing resources and supporting the festival’s organization. He described the event as “a festival of modern times” poised to elevate Ogun State’s status on both national and international sporting platforms.
In an emotional closing, Olopade welcomed all athletes and delegates to Ogun State, saying: “Welcome to my story, a game I bid for, a journey that has my name written all over it.”
As the competitions begin, Gateway Games 2024 is already being hailed as a historic milestone in Nigerian sports—one that promises to celebrate not only athletic excellence but also national unity and pride.
