Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has reaffirmed the state’s readiness to host the forthcoming Gateway Games 2024 — the National Sports Festival — declaring that major facilities have been fully upgraded ahead of the event.
Speaking while receiving members of the Guild of Sports Editors in Abeokuta, the governor said, “We are 95 percent ready for the Games. The M.K.O. Abiola Stadium and Alake Sports Centre have been refurbished to international standards, and we’re confident of delivering a successful festival.”
Abiodun emphasized that the event would serve as more than a competition, describing the Gateway Games as a powerful driver of the state’s emerging “sports economy.”
“This festival is not just about athletics. It is about using sports as a unifying force, a platform for youth empowerment, and a catalyst for national integration. It’s a step towards building what we now call the Sports Economy,” the governor stated.
He disclosed that, for the first time in the history of the National Sports Festival, all participating athletes and officials would be accommodated in a specially designated Games Village.
“This is a historic first. We have put in place a dedicated Games Village to house all contingents. It’s a bold statement of our commitment to athletes’ welfare and the standard we aim to uphold,” Abiodun added.
The governor further noted that Ogun State’s preparedness has drawn international interest, including the attention of the Confederation of African Athletics, which is considering the state as host for the U-18 and U-20 African Athletics Championships.
He also assured of adequate security throughout the duration of the event, while commending the federal government and the private sector for their contributions.
A highlight of the occasion was the announcement of football legend Chief Segun Odegbami as the Grand Sports Ambassador of Ogun State.
“Chief Odegbami represents the excellence we want these Games to inspire. His legacy in Nigerian sports makes him a perfect symbol for this historic event,” Abiodun remarked.
In his response, President of the Guild of Sports Editors, Mr. Tony Ubani, applauded the governor’s efforts in upgrading sports infrastructure and pledged the Guild’s support for the success of the festival.
“We have seen the facilities. Ogun is setting a new standard, and we are impressed. You can count on our support to make this a truly world-class event,” Ubani said.
