Team Kwara Dazzles as President Tinubu Declares 22nd National Sports Festival Open in Abeokut

 Team Kwara Dazzles as President Tinubu Declares 22nd National Sports Festival Open in Abeokut


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Ayodeji Ismail


Team Kwara turned heads in their vibrant cultural attire during the official opening ceremony of the 22nd National Sports Festival tagged Gateway Games 2024, held at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta, on Sunday.


President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, formally declared the festival open, reaffirming his administration’s unwavering support for sports and youth development under the Renewed Hope Agenda.


 “Sports brings people together irrespective of class, religion, and ethnicity. Our reorganization of the sports sector under this administration reflects our recognition of its vital role. We shall continue to explore every opportunity to promote national growth and unity,” said the Vice President on behalf of the President.



He also praised Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for being an exceptional host, noting the excellent organization of the Games.


In his remarks, Governor Abiodun described the hosting of the multi-sports event as a defining moment in the history of the National Sports Festival.


“This is a celebration of national unity and youth vibrancy. We’re thankful to President Tinubu for his steadfast support for sports. Our decision to host the festival is rooted in our belief in the power of sports as a catalyst for youth empowerment and national integration,” he said.


NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, hailed the ceremony as “amazing,” noting that the Festival serves as a celebration of Nigeria’s diversity and unity through sports.


 “We’re repositioning sports as a national asset for job creation under the Reset, Refocus, Relaunch initiative. Sports remain a veritable tool for national cohesion,” Dikko stated.


Hon. Bukola Olopade, Director General of the National Sports Commission, delivered an emotional address, reminiscing his role 19 years ago during Gateway Games 2006 as Ogun State’s Commissioner for Sports. Now leading the NSC, Olopade declared that Gateway Games 2024 “will be the best Festival in history.”


Ogun State Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, emphasized that the state is honored to host an event that goes beyond competition — calling it a tool for unity, transformation, and national solidarity.


The event was graced by dignitaries including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Professor Wole Soyinka, State Governors, Ministers, National Assembly and State Assembly members, among others.


Team Kwara not only dazzled in cultural elegance but also sent a strong message of readiness as their athletes prepare to compete fiercely over the two-week sporting fiesta. 

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