President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared the 22nd National Sports Festival tagged Gateway Games open.
In colourful opening Ceremony held on Sunday 18th, May 2025 at the MKO Abiola International Stadium in Abeokuta, Vice President Kasheem Shettima, who represented the president, described sports noted that the present administration recognizes sports as a crucial rally ground for patriotism.
The host Governor, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State also emphasized the role sports plays in ensuring national development, peace and unity.“Our national development depends on peaceful coexistence and sports remains one of the most powerful platforms for fostering national unity,” he said.
Speaking further, he assured that the Ogun State Government, in collaboration with national security agencies, have deployed a robust security framework to ensure a safe, peaceful, and enjoyable event for all.“
As we mark this turning point in Nigeria’s sporting history, I assure you that the next ten days will dazzle us with unimaginable talent, remarkable performances, record breaking feats, personal displays, and the true spirit of sportsmanship.“Therefore, I express my profound gratitude to my President, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, my fellow governors, National and State Assembly members, captains of industry, the National Sports Commission Chairman and DG, the Main Organizing Committee, the Local Organizing Committee, and all other contributors who have supported us in making this 22nd National Sports Festival Gateway Games a reality,” he said.
Meanwhile, Abeokuta, the Ogun state capital thundered with excitement on Sunday 18th, May 2025 as the curtain was raised for the 2024 National Sports Festival tagged Gateway Games with a colourful opening ceremony performances at the MKO Abiola International Stadium, Abeokuta.
The crowd was thrilled with dance, music, calisthenics display of the performers, and fireworks in what could be described as one of the best sports festival opening ceremonies ever.
The performers included Asa, Meskey Milliano while there was display of the various cultural heritage of the South West.
The opening Ceremony also attracted top government dignitaries and they include the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sen. Kasheem Shettima, GCON and former president Olusegun Obasanjo.
Others include the South West governors, Governor of Anambra State, Charles Soludo, former governor of Ogun state, Olusegun Osoba, former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dimeji Bankole, Senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel, Senator Olamilekan Adeola and Professor Wole Soyinka amongst others.
Over 10,000 athletes from the 36 States of the federation and the FCT are taking part in the games billed to end on Friday 30th May 2025.