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Daud Olatunji
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Sunday, officially declared the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival (NSF), tagged Gateway Games 2024, at the Mko ABIOLA international stadium, Abokuta, in the state of Ogun.
Represented by vice -president Kashim Shettimo, the president described the two -year event as a vital platform for national unity, cohesion and a symbol of renewed hope for the Nigerians.
“In fact, nothing brought together the nation as sport, either on the field, on the pitch or on the track,” said Tinubu.
“We are reminded of each day that we are not foreign to each other, but the compatriots taken from different roots, drinking from the same well of national pride.”
By highlighting the recognition of his administration of sports as a vehicle for national integration and development, Tinubu has announced the reorganization of the sports administration in an autonomous national sports commission.
“For decades, sport has put Nigeria on the global map. It remains one of the strongest forces for unity and patriotism. We want an autonomous, innovative and focused sports industry because we recognize its critical role in the construction of a healthier, stronger and more united Nigeria,” he added.
The Governor of the State of Ogun, Dapo Inhabitun, in his welcome speech, described the festival as more than one competition, calling it a celebration of units, talent and development.
“Today, we reaffirm our commitment to build a future in which the talent is nourished, the hard work is rewarded and the state of Ogun remains a lighthouse of excellence,” said the governor.
“Our offer of hosting this event was guided by our adamant conviction in the transformative power of sports for socio -economic development and the empowerment of young people.”
The president of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, praised the president’s bold move to pass the former federal sport ministry in a full -blown commission, noting that he marks the beginning of professionalism in the sports scene of Nigeria.
“The festival of this year takes a historic turning point with the inclusion of the junior invited (ija) athletes,” revealed Dikko.
They are in “over 200 young athletes are participating – a first in the history of NSF. Yeah, the IJAS have won two medals in the golf. This is the only platform for these athletes to launch themselves into the global arena.”
The general manager of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, also expressed profound emotion while he was addressed to the public, remembering his journey from the commissioner to the head of the main organizing committee.
“Nineteen years ago, I stopped on this same track as a commissioner. Today I am in front of you as president of the main organizing committee. This is, without a doubt, the best sports festival to which the country has witnessed,” said Olopade. “We are convinced that this game will stimulate greater basic development.”
The vibrant opening ceremony characterized an performance of the national and state of the state of the popular percussionist, Ara, followed by energetic dance display and the official launch of the musical theme of the Festival. The vice -president arrived exactly at 18:02 and was received by the Governor inhaboun together with other already seated dignitaries.
Among the main participants there were the former president Ollusgun Obasanjo; Former speakers of the room of representatives, Dimeji Bankole and Muyiwa Oladipo; Former governors of the state of Ogun, Segun Oosoba and Gbenga Daniel; Governor of the State of Anambra, Charles Soludo; and Senator Solomon Adeola (Yayi).
Other present included representatives of governors of Delta, Ekiti, Kogi and States of Ondo; members of the Chamber of Representatives including Gboyega Isiaka; Former Orators Titi Oseni and Suraj Adekunbi; and the chief judge of the state of Ogun, the judge Mosunmola Dipeolu.
Governor inhaboun observed that over 10,000 athletes are hosted in structures of Olympic size throughout the state, with robust security agreements in place to guarantee a fluid and safe festival.
He also recognized the governors Mai Mala Buni (Yobe), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Ahmed Ododo (Kogi) and the Progressive Governors Forum for their support.
“Sport transcends ethnicity and the tribe. Investing in sport is investing in our future,” concluded inhabitu.
The Gateway Games 2024 promises to be a celebration of resilience, talent and unity of Nigeria’s youth while competing through various disciplines in the spirit of excellence.
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