The stage is set for a thrilling start to the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, Gateway Games 2024, as music superstars Davido and Asa are confirmed to headline the highly anticipated opening ceremony today, Sunday, May 18, at 5 PM.
The event will take place at the MKO Abiola International Stadium in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, marking the commencement of what promises to be one of the best-organized editions in the festival’s history.
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Organizers have pulled out all the stops to deliver a world-class spectacle. Cultural displays, dazzling performances, and modern production standards have been lined up to captivate audiences nationwide.
Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, who also chairs the Main Organizing Committee of the Games, expressed his excitement ahead of the ceremony.
“This is our own Olympics, and from start to finish, the festival must portray that global feel—both in competition and organization,” Olopade stated. “That’s why the NSC and the Ogun State Government have put together a world-class event to launch the festival today.”
Olopade added that preparations had spanned two years, with skeptics doubting the state’s ability to deliver. However, he is confident the opening ceremony will silence all critics
“Beyond the aesthetics everyone can see today, from the opening ceremony to the Games proper, you will be witnessing the best festival yet,” he said.
He also revealed that, for the first time, the first two days of the festival will be free of the usual logistical issues such as hostel and feeding challenges
“I’m very excited about everything, especially what’s coming up later today. While I won’t reveal all the details, I can say Asa will open the show and Davido will close it. What happens in between? Nigerians will just have to stay glued to their screens.”
The 2024 Gateway Games aim not only to celebrate sporting excellence but also to showcase Nigerian culture and talent on a grand scale.
