Call it a gateway of excellence, a gateway of prosperity, or a symbol of national unity and peace—you won’t be wrong.
It was an evening filled with entertainment, laughter, and celebration as Nigerians came together to embrace the nation’s rich and diverse culture. The 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games 2024, kicked off on Sunday with what many have described as the most colorful and spectacular opening ceremony in the history of the games.
The event featured vibrant cultural displays showcasing Nigeria’s heritage, with electrifying musical performances that lit up the night. Renowned Nigerian artistes Asa and Davido headlined the ceremony—Asa opened with a soulful performance, while Davido brought the curtain down with an energetic and thrilling finale.
More than 10,000 athletes from the 36 states of the federation, the Federal Capital Territory, and the Invited Junior Athletes Team are competing in 33 sports disciplines. The festival will be held across multiple venues in Abeokuta, including the Alake Sports Centre, the newly renovated MKO Abiola Stadium, Remo Stars Stadium, and Babcock University Sports Complex.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, welcomed state delegates and assured them of a groundbreaking event that will set new standards in the history of Nigerian sports.
The sporting community, both at home and abroad, was captivated by the world-class spectacle, infused with rich cultural heritage and star-studded performances.
In his address, Hon. Olopade emphasized the core values of the festival—love, focus, discipline, and unity. He noted that the festival is not just a sporting event, but a celebration of integrity and sportsmanship.
“Let medals be won with honor, not by crook,” he urged, stressing the importance of fair play and true athletic spirit.
The DG acknowledged the unwavering support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whose vision and leadership he credited for the transformation currently taking place in Nigerian sports.
“We are where we are today—revamping, reshaping, and resetting our sports ecosystem—because of Mr. President’s vision. He is the reason the National Sports Festival now has a world-class standard, and we will continue to thank him,” he said.
He also commended the Chairman of the NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko, for his dedication to the success of the festival.
“Mallam Dikko has shown immense commitment and passion for this project. That spirit must be reflected in every athlete and official involved,” he added.
Hon. Olopade expressed deep appreciation to the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for his exceptional support in mobilizing resources and empowering stakeholders. He described the games as “a festival of modern times,” poised to place Ogun State on both the national and international sports map.
Welcoming participants to the state, Hon. Olopade concluded with emotion: “Welcome to my story—a game I bid for, a journey that has my name written all over it.”
As anticipation builds, Gateway Games 2024 is shaping up to be a landmark edition of the National Sports Festival—celebrating not just athletic excellence, but also unity, passion, and the enduring Nigerian spirit.
