Sport

Tinubu, Abiodun Mourn 21 Kano Athletes Killed in Road Crash

By Web News 128

By Abimbola Bamgbose / Adebukola Aluko

President Bola Tinubu has expressed sorrow over the tragic accident that claimed the lives of members of the Kano State contingent returning from the recently concluded National Sports Festival in Ogun State.

In a statement issued on Saturday, his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described the incident as a “devastating blow to the nation” and extended heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Kano State, as well as the families of the deceased.

The statement read, “This tragedy casts a shadow over the National Sports Festival, a celebration of unity, talent, and excellence.

“It has long served as a platform for discovering and nurturing athletes who bring pride to Nigeria on both national and international stages.”

The President paid tribute to the victims, noting that their dedication and aspirations reflected the resilient Nigerian spirit.

He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving transportation safety to prevent such occurrences in the future.

“The greatest honour we can accord them is to take concrete steps to prevent such tragedies and enhance safety standards across the nation’s transport systems,” Tinubu said.

He prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed and asked God Almighty to comfort and strengthen the bereaved families during this difficult time.

Similarly, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident involving members of the Kano State contingent who were returning home after participating in the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival ,NSF, held in Ogun State.

A bus conveying the athletes was said to have been involved in a crash about 50 kilometres from Kano after passing through Kaduna State, claiming the lives of 21 athletes.

Abiodun, in a statement issued in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, on Saturday, said the incident had left him completely traumatized, especially given that the athletes were vibrant young people who were looking forward to a warm reception from their fans and families after proudly donning the colours of Kano State at the just-concluded Gateway Games 2024.

Expressing condolences to the government and people of Kano State over the incident, Abiodun prayed for the repose of the souls of the athletes, saying that they were heroes whose patriotism and commitment to the cause of Kano State and Nigeria as a whole will never be forgotten.

“We are deeply saddened by this incident, and we pray that Almighty Allah grants them eternal rest.

“I commiserate with His Excellency, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, and his cabinet, the Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, Umar Bala Fagge, and the people of Kano State over this most tragic and unfortunate incident. May we never witness this kind of incident again.”

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Sport

Medals Table: Ogun Finishes in Second Position

By Web News 256

By Olusegun Folarin

Ogun State has finished in second position on the medals table behind the defending champion, Delta State.

The host state amassed a total of two hundred and thirty-eight medals, which comprises 93 Gold, 65 Silver and 80 bronze medals.

According to the official medals table released online, Delta State retained its number spot with 126 gold, 100 silver and 111 Bronze medals while Bayelsa finished in third position with 92 gold, 65 Silver and 71 bronze medals.

In the fourth place is Rivers State with a total of 199 medals, which consist of 76 Gold, 58 Silver and 65 bronze medals. Edo State finished in the 5th position on the log with 73 Gold, 101 silver and 109 bronze medals.

Oyo, Lagos, FCT, Osun, and Akwa Ibom States made up the ten on the medals table.

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Sport

NSF Closing Ceremony: Leaders Harp on Sports as Tool for National Development

By Web News 276

By Olusegun Folarin

The 22nd National Sports Festival, GATEWAY GAMES 2024, has ended in Ogun State as Nigerians harp on the need to leverage sports for sustainable peace and economic growth.

According to Radio Nigeria, the official closing ceremony, held at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, Kuto Abeokuta, offered an avenue for national leaders and sports administrators to highlight the importance of sports as a veritable tool for nation-building.

The occasion was the climax of the two-week-long fireworks of thrilling performances and exceptional athletic talents, showcasing stiff competition for honours in 33 different sporting activities involving more than 10,000 participants.

At the final stage, Delta State clinched the first spot as the overall winner of the largest sports Fiesta with more than 320 medals, with Bayelsa, Ogun, Rivers and Edo states forming a queue on the score-line. 

Addressing the massive gathering of participants and enthusiasts at the closing ceremony, President Bola Tinubu acknowledged that the national sports festival had continued to encourage the spirit of togetherness among citizens, irrespective of social, political, religious or cultural differences.

President Tinubu, who was represented by the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, expressed his determination to change the country’s situation for the better and secure the future of the generations yet unborn, adding that the revitalisation of school sports would further contribute tremendously to national growth.

In a message to the event, Former President Olusegun Obasanjo said the festival was a reminder that every young Nigerian had the capacity for greatness and excellence through the display of courage and sportsmanship.

He encouraged the stakeholders to sustain the legacies of the games and cherish the memories created, describing all the participants as champions, not only of sports, but of unity, diligence, resilience and national pride.

In a remark, Governor Dapo Abiodun said the competition had served as a powerful engine for local economic revitalisation, infrastructure enhancement, community engagement and statewide pride beyond the thrill of the festival.

Governor Abiodun assured that his administration would not relentlessly sustain sports development among other sectors in the state.

Earlier, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Sheu Dikko, had emphasised that the Ogun State government had succeeded in raising the bar and setting a new benchmark for organising a befitting sports festival.

The highlight of the closing ceremony was the presentation of the flag to Enugu as the next host of the event before the symbolic putting off of the games torch to indicate an end to the 22nd of the festival.

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Sport

Blessing Oborududu Quits Wrestling

By Web News 170

By Olusegun Folarin 

2021 Tokyo Olympic silver medalist, Blessing Oborududu, has bid an emotional goodbye to wrestling after 19 years of active bout on the mat.
 

The 14-time African champion won her final bout to clinch gold for Bayelsa at the 22nd National Sports Festival in Abeokuta and end an illustrious career.

The Bayelsa-born wrestler received an emotional farewell from National teammates with a pleasant standing ovation from fans, officials, and wrestling stakeholders.

Competing for Bayelsa State, the 68kg titan sealed her farewell with a commanding victory over Rita Odede of Nasarawa, clinching yet another gold medal to cap off a career marked by dominance, resilience, and historic firsts.

An emotional Blessing Oborududu in her farewell speech expressed appreciation for the support she had received since her career started in 2006.

Oborududu who recounted her memories especially during her participation at the Tokyo Olympics expressed the hope of more medals from the nation’s future wrestlers.

In a remark, the President, Nigeria Wrestling Federation,  Mr Daniel Igali described Oborududu as an exceptional and absolute professional beyond being an athlete.

Also, Hannah Reuben led the tribute of teammates, who stated her heartfelt admiration for Oborududu, acknowledging her dedication, achievements, and impact. 

She expressed gratitude for her years of service and being a great teammate and captain, and wished her well in her future endeavours.

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Sport

Payment of athletes allowances has commenced – Abiodun

By Web News 77

By Olusegun Folarin 

Ogun State Government has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the improved welfare of all participants at the ongoing National Sports Festival, NSF.

Governor Dapo Abiodun, in a statement through his Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Strategy, Mr Kayode Akinmade described as regrettable the protest staged by some athletes representing the state at the ongoing National Sports Festival over delayed allowances.

Pointing out that the athletes acted out of impatience, as all necessary arrangements had been concluded for the payment of their allowances, the governor stated that the protest was inconsistent with the values and objectives the state upholds.

He noted that the payment of allowances had already commenced, with athletes receiving bank alerts as scheduled.

The athletes, in the early hours of Wednesday, staged a protest over the non-payment of their allowances.

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Sport

NSF 2024: Golden Eaglets Beat Team Kaduna to Claim Football Bronze

By Web News 165

By Olusegun Folarin 

The Nigeria Under-17 side, the Golden Eaglets, has defeated Team Kaduna 2-nil in the third-place match of the male football event at the ongoing National Sports Festival, NSF.

The Golden Eaglets who are also referred to as the Invited Junior Athletes, IJA, who lost to Team Ogun State in the semi-finals of the competition, went home with the bronze medal.

In the female category, goals from Damilola Adeyanju and Itunuoluwa Odediya in the first half of the match played at Remo Stars Stadium gave Team Ogun the victory over Team Osun to win the bronze medal.

The final matches in the football event of the festival will be played at the newly renovated MKO Abiola Sports Arena, beginning from 4 PM.

Ogun State team will battle Kwara State in the male category, while the Flamingos will take on Delta State in the female category.

In Handball, Edo State defeated Kogi State by 32 goals to 20 to win the bronze in the female category.

In Abula, Oyo State defeated Bayelsa State to win gold in the women’s category, Team Oyo also recorded a gold medal in the male hockey event after defeating Kaduna State in the final.

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Sport

NSC Partners Ministry of Education on Sport

By Web News 87

By Olusegun Folarin

The National Sports Commission, NSC, has announced a partnership with the Ministry of Education to revive school sports.

NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko stated this while speaking with journalists at the Main Organising Committee, MOC, Secretariat, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, at the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival tagged Gateway Games 2024.

Describing school sports as the bedrock of Sports Development, Mallam Dikko listed part of the plans to include establishing sports programmes in primary and unity schools across all local governments, and creating universities of excellence in each geopolitical zone to support students with athletic potential.

The NSC chairman affirmed that the current administration under President Bola Tinubu had made budgetary allocations for sports federations to successfully execute their developmental programmes.

He explained that the allocations were aimed at empowering federations to intensify training programmes in preparation for upcoming major international competitions such as the African Games and the Olympic Games.

Mallam Dikko disclosed that within the national budget, provisions had been made for Elite Athletes Development and the Podium Finish Board, both tasked with identifying and nurturing new talents in line with federations’ strategies to ensure podium finishes at the Olympics and global championships.

He also attributed the successful partnership with the headline sponsor of this year’s festival to the flexible policies of the Federal Government and the conducive economic environment created, especially in the host state, Ogun.

The NSC chairman emphasized that the combination of government support and private sector engagement was essential to Nigeria’s rise on the global sporting stage.

In a remark, the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Chief Bukola Olopade, acknowledged some concerns raised by the media, assuring that they were addressed in advance.

He promised improved infrastructure and facilities in future editions of the games.

Sport

Ogun, Kwara Set for Showdown in NSF Football Final

By Web News 115

By Olusegun Folarin

Ogun State representative in the football event at the ongoing National Sports Festival has qualified for the final of the male category of the football event.

The Ogun State team defeated the Golden Eaglets of Nigeria by two goals to one in one of the semi finals matches played at the Remo Stadium, Ikenne.

In the other semi final game, Kwara State beat Kaduna State by a lone goal to set up the final match with Ogun State male football team.

Kaduna State will therefore battle the Golden Eaglets for the Bronze Medal.

The final match involving the male and female football teams will take place at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena on Tuesday, 27th May, 2025.

Sport

22nd NSF: NWF President Urges Error-Free Officiating as Wrestling Kicks Off

By Web News 120

By Olusegun Folarin

The President, Nigeria Wrestling Federation, Mr Daniel Ighali, has urged referees to be at their best and ensure error-free performance as the wrestling competition begins on Monday at the 22nd National Sports Festival in Ogun State.

Mr Ighali made the call during the Nigeria Wrestling Federation’s coaches and referees refresher course held in Ikenne, Ogun State.

The course was attended by coaches and referees from various states, with the women’s national team coach, Purity Akuh, serving as one of the instructors.

New rules governing the sport were discussed during the session.

He announced that the Federation would provide three additional jury members, aside from the Virtual Assistant Referees, to assist officials during the tournament.

Mr Ighali emphasized the importance of self development and continuous improvement to enable the Nigerian referees to officiate matches at international competitions.

With wrestling events at the Festival set to begin on Monday, he stressed the need to take proactive steps to elevate the standard of coaching and officiating across the country and meet international expectations.

Sport

Ogun Darts Team Sweeps Medals at Sports Festival

By Web News 110

By Segun Folarin

The Ogun State Darts Team has put up a stunning show winning seven gold, one silver, and three bronze medals at the completion of the competition in the ongoing 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival tagged Gateway Games 2024.

The team, led by Ololade Adeyemi, showcased exceptional skills and talent, leaving other competitors in their wake.

At the competition held at the Abeokuta Sports Club, Oke- ilewo,Abeokuta, Adeyemi was the standout performer, clinching five individual gold medals in the TDB Ladies Single, 501 Ladies Single, 701 Ladies Single, 201 Ladies Single, and 300 Ladies Single categories.

She also won bronze medal in the 301 Ladies Singles and a silver medal in the 701 Ladies Doubles, partnering with Toluwanimi Odedola.

In the same vein, the Ogun State men’s Darts team also made a strong impression, with David Osudare winning gold in the 201 Men’s Single and Adegbola Jide securing gold in the 300 Men’s Single.

The duo of Williams Oluseyi and Lawal Kayode added a bronze medal in the 701 Men’s Doubles, while Damilola Akinsola won a bronze in the 201 Ladies Singles.

The darts competition officially came to a close on Saturday with the presentation of medals to the winners.

Sport

Team Ogun Wins Gold in Mixed Relay

By Web News 93

By Olusegun Folarin

The quartet of Gafar Badmus, Tosin Adeloye, Samson Nathaniel and Toheebat Jimoh have won a gold for Ogun State in the 4×400 mixed relay at the ongoing National Sports Festival tagged “Gateway Games 2024”.

They cross the finish line in a time of 3:20.65, Team Edo finished 2nd in the race with a time of 3:23.41, while Team Lagos got on the podium in the event, finishing with the Bronze medal in a time of 3:24.36

Speaking with Journalists after the race at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, Abeokuta, the Coach of the team , Saheed Akinpelu, applauded the athletes for the feat achieved.

Coach Akinpelu attributed the victory to dedication and hard work, adding that the camping exercise by the state government also assist the athletes.

He expressed optimism that more gold medals would still be won by the state , saying that the athletes had worked and prayed.

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Sport

Ogunbanwo Dethrones Nigeria’s Top Shooter

By Web News 219

By Olusegun Folarin 

Ogun State representative in the shooting event at the ongoing National Sports Festival, Taiwo Ogunbanwo, has created a major upset in the competition following his victory over Nigeria’s number one, Okposo Esugo of Delta.

The event, which took place at the Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, was electrified when Taiwo fired 24 shots in 12 rounds with 225 points 4 to dislodge Nigeria’s number one from Delta State, Okposo Esugo, who scored 223.5 and Borno’s Samuel Okanlawon, who polled 204.0 points to win the bronze medal.

Esugo had won the gold medal in 10m air rifle for the past 15 years, a feat that earned him Nigeria’s number one shooter.

Reacting to his victory, Ogunbanwo attributed his success to the adequate preparation and effective working tools provided by the Ogun state government to prepare for the festival. 

He said the two-point-five million naira promised by Governor Dapo Abiodun further motivated him and lifted his spirit.

Meanwhile, in the team’s 10m air rifle, the duo of Taiwo Ogunbanwo and Oluremi Emmanuel claimed silver medals for Team Ogun, after losing the gold medals to Delta’s Okposo Esugo and Diri Joseph.

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Sport

Cycling Federation Suspends Edo Coach

By Web News 219

By Olusegun Folarin 

The Cycling Federation of Nigeria, CFN has suspended Edo State Coach, Jackson Iyobosa Edobor, from further participation at the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival tagged Gateway Games for unruly behaviour. 

The CFN Secretary General, Mr. Joel Akinluwa said in a statement that Coach Edobor was suspended from attending any cycling competitions or visiting the cycling venue with immediate effect.

He alleged that Coach Edobor threatened to kill the Commissaire, Mr. Osaretin Emuze, for allegedly influencing the outcome of the Male Team Pursuits.

Mr Akinluwa said his unruly behaviour not only brought shame to the coach and his team but also compromised the integrity of the event.

He noted that the suspension would be lifted if the coach could write an apology letter to the Cycling Federation of Nigeria, acknowledging his wrongdoing and promising not to engage in such behaviour in the future.

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Sport

Kolade Sets New Record @ NSF

By Web News 131

By Olusegun Folarin 

Otunla Kolade of Ogun State has set a new National record in the 100 meter backstroke swimming event at the ongoing National Sports Festival, NSF, tagged Gateway Games.

Kolade secured first position with a time of 1:02.41s.

He shattered the previous record set in 2018.

Speaking with Radio Nigeria, Kolade attributed the feat to hard work, dedication and resilient spirit as well as the support from the coaching crew.

The new national record holder who represented Nigeria at a youth game in Ghana, where he won two gold medals and one silver, expressed his desire to become a world champion in the 100 meter backstroke event. 

Also, one of the Kolade’s coaches, Terriate Gbagi commended the athlete for demonstrating the spirit of excellence, describing the record set as heroic.

Meanwhile, Ogun State female Handball team has qualified for the next round of the competition following their victory over Plateau State.

The team had earlier defeated Kogi State in their first game.

Olusegun Folarin reports that Team Sokoto beat their counterparts from Edo State by 22 goals to 20, Lagos thrashed Bauchi by 33 goals to 13.

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Sport

Ogun Wins First Gold Medal in Swimming

By Web News 101

By Olusegun Folarin

Omolola Akinsanmi has won gold medal for Ogun State in the 800 freestyle women swimming event at the ongoing National Sports Festival which took place at the newly constructed swimming pool, MKO Abiola Sports Arena, Kuto, Abeokuta.

The young swimmer, who recently returned from the United Kingdom to compete for her home state, expressed excitement for winning the gold medal in the swimming event .

She commended the entire coaching crew for their support and encouragement which she said earned her the gold medal.

Speaking on the feat recorded the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Chief Bukola Olopade said it was the first time in almost 40 years that Ogun State would be winning a gold medal in swimming in any category.

Chief Olopade said there was the need for stakeholders, administrators and parents to rise to challenge of supporting the young swimmers that would represent the country at international competitions.

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Sport

Gateway Games Update:Team Ogun Wins in Women Handball Match

By Web News 119

By Olusegun Folarin 

Team Ogun has emerged victorious in the women’s handball match against Team Kogi, winning 32 goals 20

The match was played at the Alake Sports Centre,  Ijeja, in Abeokuta.

The highly intense game saw Team Ogun dominating the first half by scoring 16 goals, while Team Kogi managed 11 goals.

Speaking with Radio Nigeria after the match, Team Ogun’s head coach, Mr Shola Sekoni, expressed excitement over the team’s performance, stating that expectations remained high. 

Coach Sekoni further commended the state government for providing a standard facility for the games. 

Also, Team Kogi’s coach, Mr Emeka Joseph, expressed optimism that his team would bounce back stronger in their next match against Plateau State.

In the male category, Team FCT beat Kano by 29 goals to 19.

In some of the games decided today, the Ogun State football team came from their defeat yesterday to beat FCT by 3 goals to 1.

In Basketball, Team Lagos beat Team Ebonyi by 87 points to 37 in the female category.

Beach Volleyball will take place in the afternoon, while Boxing and Kickboxing are ongoing at the Baptist Boys High School. Saje, Abeokuta.

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Sport

Shettima Describes Gateway Games Opening as Masterpiece, Lauds Abiodun

By Web News 100

By Abimbola Bamgbose 

Vice President Kashim Shettima has lauded Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for hosting what he described as a “masterpiece” opening ceremony of the 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games.

Speaking with journalists at the Gateway International Airport in Iperu on his return to Abuja, Shettima, who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the event, praised the festival’s grandeur and the warm hospitality extended to over 20,000 participants from across Nigeria.

“The opening ceremony was truly spectacular, unlike anything I’ve witnessed before. Words cannot fully express our gratitude to Governor Abiodun for the immense resources, passion, and energy invested in showcasing Ogun State and Nigeria to the world,” he said.

Describing sports as a powerful tool for unity, Shettima emphasised its capacity to transcend ethnic, religious, and regional divides, fostering national cohesion.

He also applauded Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, for gracing the event with his presence and participation.

“At 91, Prof Soyinka remains mentally sharp and physically agile. His involvement is a celebration of excellence and a testament to Ogun’s legacy as a gateway to knowledge, tolerance, and unity,” Shettima noted.

The Vice President reaffirmed President Tinubu’s pride in Governor Abiodun’s efforts and commended the Ogun State Sports Commission for delivering a world-class event.

In his remarks, Governor Abiodun described the opening ceremony as one of the proudest moments of his administration, noting that the National Sports Festival, established in 1973, was envisioned as a platform to promote unity, discipline, leadership, and national consciousness among Nigerian youths.

“Our goal was to demonstrate our level of preparedness and prove that Nigeria can host an event of international standard. Yesterday’s ceremony reflected our vision, commitment, and pursuit of excellence,” the governor said.

Governor Abiodun added that the successful hosting of the event further cements Ogun State’s reputation, not just as Nigeria’s industrial hub but as a gateway to sports, tourism, and overall excellence.

“I believe this opening ceremony will remain a reference point for many years,” he concluded.

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Sport

Gateway Games: Olopade Commends Handball Players for Skills

By Web News 78

By Olusegun Folarin 

The Director General, National Sports Commission, NSC, Chief Bukola Olopade, has commended the quality of play in the ongoing National Sports Festival handball event tagged “2024 Gateway Games.

Chief Olopade spoke with Sports Writers after watching the men’s handball match between Lagos and Sokoto States at the Alake Sports Complex, Abeokuta.

The Director General, who lauded the skills of the handball players, noted that the standard of the game had improved tremendously, adding that the officiating was also top-notch, which made the game more interesting, saying the players exhibited the spirit of fair play.

He disclosed that all the 36 states, including the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja, had arrived in Abeokuta for the tournament, as Benue was the last state to arrive in the games village.

In some of the results, Niger State defeated Kano State by 25 to 24 points in the male hand ball event, the same result was also recorded in the encounter between Lagos and Sokoto State with Lagos running away with the victory.

At the Ikenne centre, Lagos State walked over their counterparts from Ondo State in the male category, while Ogun State beat Benue State by 3 goals to one in the female category.

Actions continue on Tuesday, 20th May, 2025, at various centres.

Beach Volleyball, Cricket and Female Handball events will take place at the MKO Sports Arena, while Gymnastics and Squash will be held at the Alake Sports Centre. 

Other events slated for Tuesday were Boxing and Kick Boxing at the Baptist Boys High School, Saje, Abeokuta.

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Sport

Abiodun Announces N2.5 Million Reward for Gold Medal

By Web News 109

By Abimbola Bamgbose

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has announced a cash reward of 2.5 million naira for each gold medal won by Ogun State athletes at the National Sports Festival, NSF, set to commence on Sunday in the state.

The governor also pledged 1.5 million naira for each silver medal and 1 million naira for each bronze medal earned during the competition.

Governor Abiodun made the announcement during a visit to the Athletics Camp at Babcock University, Ilisan-Remo, in the Ikenne Local Government Area.

While addressing the athletes, he further assured that every Ogun State athlete would receive a 50,000 naira incentive within 24 hours, to encourage them to bring glory to the state via their performance.

The governor praised the athletes as the best the state has to offer, stating that: “You are not here just to compete, but to win. We are not just hosting; we are hosting to win. You must bring the medals home.”

Governor Abiodun highlighted Ogun State’s legacy of producing exceptional sportsmen and women who have made the nation proud, commending the athletes for their dedication and discipline.

He also emphasised the state’s readiness to host the festival, noting that significant investments had been made in sports infrastructure.

This edition of the festival marks the first time all athletes are being camped together in preparation for the games.

He cited the newly renovated International Sports Arena in Abeokuta as a key facility capable of hosting international competitions, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to developing the state’s sports economy.

While acknowledging minor logistical challenges, Governor Abiodun urged the athletes to cooperate with the officials, assuring them that all issues would be promptly addressed.

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Sport

Abiodun Receives Unity Torch Ahead of National Sports Festival

By Web News 89

By Abimbola Bamgbose

Ogun State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, on Thursday, received the Unity Torch ahead of the 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games 2024, reaffirming the state’s preparedness to host the prestigious event.

The symbolic torch was handed to the governor at the City Gate along the Abeokuta–Siun–Sagamu Expressway by Dorcas Adesokan, a celebrated badminton champion and double gold medalist at the 2014 African Youth Games.

In his remarks, Governor Abiodun emphasised that the Unity Torch, which has toured all states of the federation after being flagged off by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and handed to the President of the National Sports Commission, represents the shared dreams and aspirations of Nigerians.

The governor noted that for Ogun State, the torch symbolises a renewed commitment to the ideals of unity, peace, and national pride.

“It is a beacon that reminds us of our rich sporting heritage and the spirit of camaraderie that binds us together as Nigerians,” he added.

Governor Abiodun further highlighted that the National Sports Festival, which was initiated in 1973, was designed to promote national cohesion through healthy competition, sportsmanship, and mutual respect among the country’s diverse population.

“As we welcome this emblem of unity, we also recommit ourselves to building a society where collaboration, friendship, and mutual respect thrive,” Governor Abiodun stated.

Reiterating the state’s readiness, the governor expressed confidence in Ogun State’s ability to deliver a world-class event.

“We are honoured to host the festival for the second time. Ogun State is ready to showcase its rich culture, warm hospitality, and the exceptional talent of our athletes,” he said.

Prince Abiodun expressed hope that the Unity Torch would inspire a renewed sense of patriotism among Nigerian youths and strengthen the bonds of unity across the country.

The 22nd National Sports Festival is set to commence on Friday, 16th May, 2025.

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Sport

OGWAMA Launches 24Hrs Operation ahead of National Sports Festival

By Web News 100

Ogun State Waste Management Authority, OGWAMA, has launched special twenty-four-hour operations ahead of the 22nd National Sports Festival, “Gateway Games 2024”, holding in the state.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Waste Management, Mr Abayomi Hunye said all personnel and machinery of the Authority have been deployed to ensure a successful operation, aimed at keeping the state clean, healthier and safer from all environmental hazards before, during and after the festival.

Mr Hunye added that comprehensive arrangements have been made to manage waste effectively, including waste removal, refuse collection, to maintain cleanliness in all the competition venues across the State.

He therefore called on visitors and tourists visiting the state to be careful while driving and look out for OGWAMA Caution Signs, as its workers would be on twenty-four-hour special operations, and called on residents to maintain a clean environment.

The Special Adviser, who reiterated the agency’s commitment to ensure a clean, healthy and safe environment during the National Sports Festival” Gateway Games, also used the opportunity to welcome all athletes, officials, visitors and tourists to the state.

In the meantime, preparations have reached a crescendo at the 9 venues for various sporting events to be used by athletes from the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, participating in the 22nd National Sports Festival tagged Gateway Games 2024. 

Moshood Abiola Sports Complex, Kuto, Abeokuta is equipped for the opening ceremony and other games like Abula, Cricket, Tennis, Handball, Beach Volleyball, Swimming and Athletics, including Para and Deaf Athletics.

Baptist Boys High School, Saje Abeokuta, will host athletes for Boxing and kickboxing, while Alake Sports Centre, Ijeja Abeokuta, is the location for major indoor and outdoor games.

Other venues are Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne, NYSC orientation Camp, Sagamu, Abeokuta Golf Club, Oke Mosan, Babcock University, Ilisan and  Ijebu Ode Stadium.

The biennial multi-sports event, which began in 1973 at the National Stadium, Surulere in Lagos, was conceived as a “unifying tool” for promoting peace and cross-cultural affiliation among Nigerians, following the Civil War of 1970.

Ogun State hosted the competition in 2006 and is set to make history and create memories with the GATEWAY GAMES 2024 between Friday, 16th and Friday, 30th May, 2025.

Sport

Ogun 2025 National Sports Festival Begins

By Web News 183

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo state government has tasked the state athletes to exhibit passion, discipline, and excellence at the ongoing Ogun 2025 National Sports Festival.

Governor Seyi Makinde made the call while receiving the ’’Touch of Unity’’ for the festival, at the entrance of the state Governor’s Office, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan.

Governor Makinde, who spoke through the deputy Governor, Chief Adebayo Lawal, assured athletes of the state government’s commitment to supporting sports development through infrastructure provision, training facilities, and a conducive environment.

The governor urged the athletes to aim for bringing glory to Oyo state, and to uphold sportsmanship, integrity, and unity throughout the festival, promising recognition and reward to athletes who bring pride and honour to the state.

The Torch of Unity symbolises peace, unity, and brotherhood amongst Nigeria’s 36 states.

The Festival starts from May 13th to May 24th, 2025.

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Sport

Segun Odegbami Appointed as Grand Sports Ambassador in Ogun

By Web News 250

By Abimbola Bamgbose

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has appointed the former Nigerian International Footballer, Mr Segun Odegbami, as the Grand Sports Ambassador of the Gateway State.

Governor Abiodun made the announcement while receiving members of the Guild of Sports Editors at the Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

He noted that the appointment was in recognition of Chief Odegbami’s immense contributions to the development of sports in Nigeria.

The governor also revealed that the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, tagged “Gateway Games 2024,” will be hosted by Ogun State from May 16 to May 30 2025.

He emphasized that the festival is expected to be the best in the history of the event, with a major focus on talent discovery and the promotion of sporting excellence both in the state and across the country.

Governor Abiodun stated that the state government has invested heavily in state-of-the-art sports facilities across various locations to ensure a memorable experience for all participants.

For the first time in the history of the National Sports Festival, over 10,000 athletes from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, will be accommodated in a single location.

He added that adequate transportation logistics, including shuttle buses, have been arranged to ensure smooth movement of athletes and officials to various venues. In addition, comprehensive security measures have been put in place to safeguard lives and property throughout the festival.

Speaking on the economic impact of the event, Governor Abiodun said the festival presents an opportunity to build a robust sports economy for the state.

He noted that local businesses, especially hotels and small-scale traders, are expected to enjoy significant patronage during the games.

The governor called on media professionals to support the state government through extensive coverage of the event, assuring them of the government’s readiness to collaborate with the media to ensure a successful hosting.

In his response, Mr Segun Odegbami expressed gratitude to Governor Abiodun for the honor and pledged to use his new role to further promote sports development in Ogun State.

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Sport

Ogun Gears Up for Historic Sports Festival

By Web News 91

By Olusegun Folarin 

Ogun State government has renewed its determination to raise the bar of the National Sports Festival, especially in the hosting of the 22nd edition of the Games later this month. 

The Commissioner for Sport Development, Mr Wasiu Isiaka gave the indication while conducting newsmen around the renovated sporting facilities across the State.

Mr Isiaka, who gave an assurance that the Games would be declared as “best of the best”, said the commitment of the present administration to sports development was evident through its ongoing massive rehabilitation of sporting infrastructure.

He expressed optimism that the festival would set a new standard for the future, explaining that the festival, scheduled to take place from May 16 to 30, was expected to bring together top athletes, officials, and sports enthusiasts from across the country.

The sports commissioner reiterated government’s desire to leverage sports to take social vices and drug abuse off the minds of the youths.

He pointed out that the current administration was looking at the possibility of establishing a sporting system, since a solid foundation was being laid through the hosting of the National Sports Festival.

Sport

Ogun Unveils Mascot for National Sports Festival

By Web News 165

By Olusegun Folarin 

The official Mascot and theme Song for the 22nd National Sports Festival have been unveiled with a call on the stakeholders to support the Local Organizing Committee, LOC, to make the sports mundial an unforgettable celebration of talent, unity and National pride. 

Governor Dapo Abiodun made the call during the unveiling of the Mascot at a colourful ceremony held at the June 12 Cultural Centre in Abeokuta.

Governor Abiodun who was represented by his deputy, Mrs Noimot Salako-Oyedele explained that the unveiling was a bold testament of his administration towards delivering the most memorable, inclusive, and most inspiring National Sports Festival Nigerians have ever seen.

He pointed out that the mascot and the theme song reflected the energy, cultural heritage, and aspirations of the people of Ogun State. 

The Governor urged residents of the state to actively participate by attending events, cheering the athletes, and welcome guests with kindness and showcase the culture and hospitality that makes Ogun State a tourism attraction. 

In a remark, the Director-General, National Sports Commission, NSC, Mr Bukola Olopade expressed satisfaction with the level of preparedness of Ogun state ahead of the fast approaching 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games 2024, holding from May 16-30.

Mr Olopade, who is also  the Chairman of the Main Organizing Committee, MOC, assured participants that they would witness the best ever in the country. 

Earlier, the Commissioner for Sports Development, Mr Wasiu Isiaka had appreciated members of the Local Organizing Committee for working tirelessly to meet up with the time frame of the opening ceremony. 

Mr Isiaka maintained that Governor Abiodun has made significant investments in upgrading existing facilities and constructing new ones to meet world-class standards.