The countdown is almost over. In just two days, the heartbeat of Nigerian sports will shift to the Gateway State, as Ogun gears up to host the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival (NSF) — tagged Gateway Games 2024 — in what promises to be the most ambitious and unifying sporting spectacle in the nation’s history.
Abeokuta and other host cities are already buzzing with activity as thousands of athletes, officials, coaches, and fans from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory begin to arrive ahead of the grand opening ceremony. For Ogun State, it’s more than just a festival — it’s a bold declaration of intent to redefine Nigeria’s sports culture.
The event, themed around unity, excellence, and youth empowerment, is being organised by the Federal Ministry of Sports Development in partnership with the Ogun State Government under the leadership of Governor Dapo Abiodun, who has thrown the full weight of his administration behind delivering a truly world-class experience.
Speaking during a final pre-event briefing, NSC Chairman, Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, described the Gateway Games as “a turning point in Nigeria’s sporting evolution.”
“We’ve witnessed National Sports Festivals over the decades, but Ogun State has taken the ambition to a new level — from infrastructure to innovation and athlete welfare. This is not just a competition; it’s a movement,” Elegbeleye said.
The festival will feature over 10,000 athletes competing in 40 sports disciplines, including track and field, swimming, wrestling, boxing, table tennis, and newer entries like e-sports. Scouts and national team coaches are already lined up to monitor standout performances with an eye on grooming future Olympians.
Governor Abiodun, during his address, noted that the festival represents an opportunity to showcase the capacity of Ogun’s youth while also unlocking economic opportunities across sectors such as tourism, hospitality, transportation, and local manufacturing.
“Gateway Games 2024 is not only about medals; it’s about memories, milestones, and momentum for a greater Nigeria,” the governor declared.
Beyond competition, the Gateway Games will also feature side attractions such as cultural exhibitions, tech innovation hubs, entertainment nights, and a youth employment summit — reinforcing the festival’s commitment to holistic national development.
As the final touches are made to the ultra-modern venues across Ijebu-Ode, Sagamu, and Abeokuta, excitement is rising both online and on the ground. Hotels are fully booked, local markets are booming, and the streets are already wearing the colours of celebration.
With just 48 hours to go, Nigeria is not just waiting for another sports event — it is preparing to witness a sporting revolution, ignited from the Gateway to the Nation.
Let the Games begin.
