The opening ceremony of the much-anticipated 22nd National Sports Festival tagged Gateway Games was a spectacular display of energy, colour, and national pride, drawing accolades from dignitaries, athletes, and citizens alike.
One of the most enthusiastic voices of praise came from Ambassador Adewale Adeogun, National Coordinator of the Tinubu Think-Tank and a member of the Governing Council of the Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko, Delta State.
Speaking to Sports247 at the newly renovated MKO Abiola Sports Arena, the venue for the grand opening, Ambassador Adeogun expressed his admiration for the vibrant atmosphere and seamless organization that marked the first National Sports Festival under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
“You can see the difference,” he noted. “The current crop of people handling sports in Nigeria today are the best.”
He singled out Sheu Dikko and Bukola Olopade for commendation, describing them as two of the finest sports administrators in Nigeria.
“They’ve been around for over three decades, planning sports from the local government level to the national stage. Now, you can see the results. This festival is proof,” he said.
Ambassador Adeogun emphasized the significance of the festival as a driver of youth engagement and empowerment, aligning closely with President Tinubu’s broader development agenda.
“I believe the youth will gain immensely from the President’s sports development strategy. By the time they leave here, their lives will never be the same again,” he asserted.
He also lauded the Ogun State government for its exceptional role in hosting the festival, citing the palpable joy and excitement among athletes, officials, and residents.
“You can feel the excitement from our governor, political office holders, citizens, and the athletes. Everyone is happy. The atmosphere is lit,” he observed.
Further highlighting the administration’s renewed commitment to sports, Ambassador Adeogun pointed to recent actions that have boosted athlete morale, including the settlement of outstanding payments.
“Look at Mr. President’s response when Remo Stars won the league—he congratulated them personally and challenged them to represent the country internationally. That kind of encouragement goes a long way,” he noted.
As contingents from across the nation continue to arrive in Ogun State, Ambassador Adeogun remains optimistic about the festival’s potential to set a new standard for national sporting events.
“This festival will be the best ever in terms of everything: facilities, organization, and its impact on the youth. I am excited about what is happening here today,” he concluded.
The Gateway Games—running from May 16 to May 30, represent the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, a platform for discovering sporting talent, fostering youth empowerment, and promoting national unity and integration across Nigeria.
