Tag: Gateway Games 2024

Alowonle praises Ogun Governor

The of Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun  has expressed his admiration for the talent and sportsmanship on display during  his whistle stops  at  several  events’ venues hosting the  22^nd  National Sports Festival tagged Gateway Games Ogun  2024. 

Yesterday, Abiodun first stopped by the Alake Sports Centre where he watched thrilling male and female volleyball matches. He praised the athletes for their energy and skill, describing the performances as  ‘truly inspiring’.

His tour continued at the Ijeja venue, where he observed gymnastics, table tennis, and handball events. The governor commended the young competitors for their determination and exceptional abilities, noting the strong spirit of healthy competition throughout the games. 

A highlight of the day was the governor’s visit to the MKO Abiola International Stadium, where he witnessed exhilarating athletic races. He also had the honour of presenting the gold medal to Team Ogun for their outstanding victory in the 4x400m Mixed Relay race. 

“It was a proud and unforgettable moment for us all,” Abiodun remarked, celebrating the athletes’ achievements and reinforcing the state’s commitment to nurturing sporting excellence.

Meanwhile, a sports enthusiast and community leader, Otunba Nurudeen Alowonle, has lauded Prince Dapo Abiodun, for delivering an  exceptional National Sports Festival in Nigeria’s history.

Alowonle in a statement commended Abiodun’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to sports development. He noted that the Gateway Games Ogun 2024 not only showcased Nigeria’s finest talents but also reinforced Ogun State’s reputation as a hub for sporting excellence.

 “This year’s festival is a testament to what can be achieved with proper planning, investment, and passion for sports.

“Governor Abiodun has set a new benchmark for future editions of the National Sports Festival,” Alowonle stated.

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The event being held at various venues across Abeokuta and other parts of Ogun State, featured over 15 sporting disciplines, including athletics, football, basketball, boxing, and traditional sports. Athletes competed fiercely, with several new national records set in track and field events.

Beyond the competitions, the festival served as a melting pot of cultures, bringing together Nigerians from different states in a celebration of sportsmanship and national pride. 

Earlier, Governor Abiodun has emphasized the importance of sports as a tool for youth empowerment and social cohesion.

“The Gateway Games 2024 is not just about winning medals; it is about inspiring our youth, promoting healthy living, and strengthening the bonds that unite us as a nation,” he said. 

The successes being recorded in the ongoing festival has been attributed to the state government’s significant investments in sports infrastructure, including the renovation of the MKO Abiola Stadium and the construction of new training facilities. Additionally, the event received praise for its efficient logistics, top-notch security arrangements, and vibrant opening and closing ceremonies, which featured performances by renowned Nigerian artists. 

Alowonle, who has been a long-time advocate for grassroots sports development, expressed optimism that the Gateway Games would leave a lasting legacy.

 “This festival has shown that Nigeria can host world-class sporting events. I hope other states will take a cue from Ogun State’s example,” he remarked. 

As the curtains draws closer to the Gateway Games 2024, athletes, officials, and fans alike are already looking forward to the next edition, with many hailing this year’s event as a golden chapter in Nigeria’s sports history.

To avoid delays in events, Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has assured  contingents to the 22^nd  National Sports Festival (NSF) of smooth transportation to event venues across the state.

With more than five venues hosting various events during the Gateway Games 2024,the Governor emphasized that shuttle buses would be provided from the games’ village at Babcock University to the different centres across the state to ensure the timely commencement of events.

 “We understand the importance of ensuring prompt starts for all events. To avoid delays, we will provide sufficient shuttle buses to transport teams to their respective venues across the state. All 10,000 athletes will be well catered for during the games, and these shuttle buses must operate on schedule,” he said.

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Abiodun also assured contingents, spectators, and residents of maximum security, guaranteeing that adequate measures have been put in place to secure lives and property during the games, tagged “Gateway Games 2024.”

He specifically praised the support from the private sector, which has significantly contributed to the state’s preparations for the games.

 “I must acknowledge the private sector’s support, which has come in various forms, ranging from gold to silver sponsorships. This support is ongoing because the government cannot do it alone. I also want to thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the Federal Government’s support  towards  staging a befitting sports festival,” he said.