The Federal Government has described the National Sports Festival (NSF) as the biggest and most important sports gathering in the country, with the power to foster unity and promote national oneness.
This statement was made by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the official opening of the 22nd National Sports Festival tagged Gateway 2024, which begins today.
Delivering his speech at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta in Ogun State, Tinubu emphasised that Nigeria, a nation of diverse ethnic groups and cultures, finds unity through sports.
Represented by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, the president commended the athletes for turning out in large numbers, stating that their participation promotes a sense of pride and patriotism.
He urged the athletes to embody the Nigerian spirit by remaining focused and disciplined as they compete in the spirit of true sportsmanship.
He commended the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Ogun State Government for organising the games and wished them a successful hosting.
In his welcome address, the Governor of Ogun State and host of the festival, Prince Dapo Abiodun, noted that the event aligns with the Federal Government’s vision of creating an enabling environment for the growth of sports in Nigeria through various strategic initiatives.
He said: “As a two-time host state, we have a proud history of nurturing talent and promoting sports development.
“We have produced notable athletes who have placed Nigeria on the global map, such as Segun Odegbami, Falilat Ogunkoya, Tobi Amusan, and many others.”
Abiodun further explained that the festival is also an opportunity to showcase the state’s rich culture and heritage, saying, “This is a celebration of unity, athletic excellence, and youthful energy that reflects the enduring spirit of our nation. I am confident that this festival will foster camaraderie, sportsmanship, and memories that will last a lifetime.”
He expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and the NSC for the opportunity given to the state to host the festival and assured all visitors of Ogun State’s renowned hospitality.
In his speech, the Chairman of the NSC, Malam Shehu Dikko, reiterated President Tinubu’s directive to reposition sports as a national asset to drive economic growth, create jobs, foster youth development, and promote national cohesion.
He said this aligns with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which the commission has encapsulated in the 3Rs: Reset, Refocus, and Relaunch Nigerian sports.
Dikko noted that the NSF, often referred to as the “Nigerian Olympics,” is a talent discovery platform that has produced and nurtured many athletes who have represented the country at global events.
For the first time in the history of the festival, an innovative initiative has been introduced to include young athletes from across the country, competing under the name of the 38th state, to provide early exposure.
“The festival unearths raw talent from every corner of the country and provides a pathway for young athletes to rise — not only as champions but also as role models and national icons,” he said.
He stressed that the festival is not just a sporting event, but a reflection of the reformed structure and framework of a new era in Nigerian sports.
“The festival represents more than just a competition; it is the ignition of a new era of Nigerian sports. As the flame of unity passes through our cities and villages, it reminds us of what sports can achieve — unity, excellence, and hope.”
Dikko urged athletes to compete with pride, fairness, and unity, noting that the goal is not only to win medals but to follow a path to greatness through clean and fair competition.
In his remarks, the Director-General of the NSC and Chairman of the Main Organising Committee of the Festival, Honourable Bukola Olopade, affirmed that the event is in line with the President’s vision for a renewed sports industry.
He added that this edition is expected to produce the highest number of medals witnessed in recent times.
Olapade noted that the state has created a vibrant sporting culture that will stand the test of time while expressing optimism that the festival will be the best to be held in the country in recent time.
He emphasised that the festival will not only be a celebration of sports but also a testament to integrity.
He described Ogun State as a land of warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage and assured all participants and guests of a festival like no other.
