The city of Abeokuta came alive on Sunday as Ogun State played host to a spectacular opening ceremony for the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, delighting an enthusiastic crowd of over 10,000 spectators with a rich display of culture, music, and athletic spirit at the MKO Abiola International Stadium.
The ceremony, which signaled the official commencement of Nigeria’s premier multi-sport competition, lasted over four hours and featured electrifying performances that celebrated both the heritage of Ogun State and the unity of the Nigerian federation. Renowned Afro-soul singer and songwriter, Bukola Elemide—popularly known as Asa—set the tone for the evening with a stirring rendition of the national anthem and the Ogun State anthem, receiving thunderous applause from the crowd.
Her soulful performance ushered in a series of choreographed routines, cultural displays, and a vibrant march-past featuring contingents from Nigeria’s 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and a unique addition of invited junior athletes, collectively forming the 38th contingent at the festival.
Adding star power to the festivities, award-winning Afrobeats sensation Davido took to the stage to deliver a high-octane musical performance that kept the stadium buzzing. The crowd sang along as he rolled out tracks from his latest project, 5ive, along with fan-favourite hits from his extensive discography, capping off a night that brilliantly blended sport and entertainment.
The Ogun 2025 National Sports Festival is shaping up to be one of the most expansive editions yet, with more than 15,000 athletes competing across various individual and team events. A total of 2,150 medals will be contested in 549 events, with 626 gold, 626 silver, and 898 bronze medals up for grabs.
Competitions will be spread across several key locations within the state, including Abeokuta, Ikenne, Sagamu, and Ijebu-Ode, as the festival aims to harness the full sporting potential of Nigeria’s youth while promoting unity and grassroots development through sports.
Widely regarded as Nigeria’s version of the Olympics, the National Sports Festival continues to serve as a critical platform for talent discovery, development, and national integration. With Ogun State setting the stage with such a grand welcome, all eyes are now on the athletes as the battle for supremacy begins.
