With exactly one month to go before the 22nd National Sports Festival, Ogun State has unveiled the mascot, logo, and theme song for the event, scheduled to take place from May 16 to 30. The unveiling ceremony, held at the June 12 Cultural Centre in Abeokuta, was a vibrant affair.
Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun, represented by his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, emphasized that the Gateway Games is not just a festival for Ogun State but for all of Nigeria. He assured that the state is ready to host and called on all stakeholders to collaborate with the Local Organising Committee (LOC) to make the festival an unforgettable celebration of talent, unity, and national pride.
The governor highlighted that the unveiling was a bold testament to his administration’s commitment to delivering the most memorable, inclusive, and inspiring National Sports Festival Nigeria has ever seen. He noted that the mascot and theme song reflect the energy, cultural heritage, and aspirations of the people of Ogun State.
Governor Abiodun urged residents to actively participate by attending events, cheering the athletes, and welcoming guests with kindness, showcasing the culture and hospitality that make Ogun State a tourist attraction.
“Today marks another milestone in our journey towards delivering what we promise will be the most memorable, inclusive, and inspiring National Sports Festival Nigeria has ever seen. Nearly two decades after hosting the festival in 2006, Ogun State is ready to welcome the country once again, raising the bar significantly,” he said.
This year’s edition features several new initiatives highlighted by the Director General of the National Sports Commission, which are set to redefine the festival experience and make Ogun 2024 truly unmissable. The theme song, rich in rhythm and spirit, was composed by Dr. Bayo Adepetun, while the mascot was created by a talented team from the Ministry of Culture. Both elements reflect the energy, cultural heritage, and aspirations of Ogun State.
Governor Abiodun emphasized the importance of execution, noting that the LOC, under the leadership of Executive Secretary Dr. Kweku Tandoh and Director General of the National Sports Commission Chief Bukola Olopade, has been working tirelessly to ensure all facilities are ready and every detail is in place.
Significant investments have been made in upgrading existing facilities and constructing new ones to meet world-class standards. These will not only serve the 2024 festival but will stand as a lasting legacy. The goal is to establish Ogun State as a prime destination for sports tourism and athletic excellence in Nigeria.
The governor encouraged all citizens and residents of Ogun State to actively participate by attending events, cheering athletes, welcoming guests, and showcasing the culture and hospitality that define Ogun State. He stressed the importance of making a strong first impression.
“Sport is more than just a competition; it is a unifier, a leveler, and a platform for discovery. For many young athletes, this festival may be the stepping stone to national recognition and international glory. I urge parents and guardians to support their children who show promise in sports,” he added.
Ogun 2024 is not just Ogun State’s festival — it is Nigeria’s festival. The governor called on all hands to make this a truly unforgettable celebration of talent, unity, and national pride. He invited partners in the public and private sectors to come on board, the media to spread the excitement, and all Nigerians to mark their calendars, plan their trips, and prepare to witness history from May 16 to May 31.
In his remarks, Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, expressed satisfaction with Ogun State’s level of preparedness for the fast-approaching festival. He assured participants that they will witness the best event ever in the country, noting that this is the first time the federal government is fully supporting the host state to ensure a successful event.
Ogun State Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, welcomed the Joint Technical Committee to the unveiling ceremony and appreciated the LOC members for their tireless efforts. He reiterated that Governor Abiodun has made significant investments in upgrading existing facilities and constructing new ones to meet world-class standards, which will serve as a lasting legacy of the National Sports Festival.