Ogun State gets Presidential praise for hosting WORLD CLASS National Sports Festival

President Bola Tinubu has praised the Ogun State Government for successfully hosting a top-quality National Sports Festival, as the 22nd edition came to an end on Thursday in Abeokuta.

Speaking through Senate President Godswill Akpabio at the closing ceremony held at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, President Tinubu commended the state for its organisation and warm hospitality throughout the 12-day event.

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State was joined at the event by Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri and other top government officials from across the country.

The President also celebrated the energy and passion of the athletes who brought the state to life from May 16 to May 30.

“To every athlete who competed, you have been discovered. Your presence here shows the unity and strength of our great nation. Your efforts have helped make this a truly world-class event,” he said.

“On behalf of President Bola Tinubu and the people of this state, I declare the 22nd National Sports Festival officially closed.”

Governor Abiodun also expressed his gratitude to the Federal Government and the National Sports Commission for trusting Ogun State to host the event.

“It took a united effort from the entire state to make this festival a memorable one for our country,” he said.

“To our athletes – you are all winners. You have shown not only skill but also the true spirit of sports – where honour meets excellence.”

More than 10,000 athletes from Nigeria’s 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and invited junior competitors took part in the festival, known as the Gateway Games 2024.

Delta State finished as the overall winners once again, securing their fifth straight title and ninth in total. The next edition of the National Sports Festival will take place in Enugu State in 2026.