The Guild of Sports Editors has expressed strong satisfaction with the modern sporting infrastructure put in place by the Ogun State Government ahead of the 2025 National Sports Festival, describing the facilities as some of the best the country has seen.
Led by its President, Tony Ubani, the editors conducted a facility tour across key venues in Abeokuta on Thursday, including the MKO Abiola International Stadium, Kuto, and the Alake Sports Centre in Ijeja.
The group commended the quality, scale, and pace of the infrastructural development, saying it reflected Ogun State’s readiness to host an outstanding edition of the festival.
“From what we have seen, Ogun State is not just ready—it is set to deliver the best National Sports Festival ever,” Ubani stated.
“The level of investment here is commendable, and we applaud Governor Dapo Abiodun for taking sports development seriously.”
During an interactive session with the State Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, veteran sports journalist Duro Ikhazuagbe of ThisDay newspaper highlighted the significant upgrades made since the last major event in 2006.
“The difference is remarkable,” Ikhazuagbe said. “Particularly the swimming pool—it’s up to international standards. I urge the government to ensure it doesn’t just serve this festival, but continues to host events afterward.”
Also speaking, Punch Sports Editor, Ebenezer Bajela, praised the integration of modern technology at the Alake Sports Centre, singling out the installation of CCTV cameras and an electronic scoreboard at the basketball and handball courts.
“These are the kinds of additions that make a facility future-proof,” Bajela noted. “However, I encourage the state government to accelerate work on the remaining projects to ensure everything is in place before May 16.”
In his final remarks, Guild President Ubani appealed to the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) and the state authorities to ensure journalists are adequately supported during the games.
“We recommend the provision of dedicated media galleries and fully equipped workstations,” he said.
“This will not only aid coverage but also reduce stress for reporters working round the clock during the festival.”
Responding to the editors’ observations, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka assured that Ogun State would not disappoint, saying the festival will go down as “the best of the best.”
“Most of the facilities are fully completed, and we’re working on the finishing touches,” Isiaka explained.
“We’ve upgraded the VVIP pavilion to accommodate nearly 150 guests, and new athletic tracks and a lush hybrid turf have been laid to elevate the experience for both athletes and spectators.”
“Our preparations are in top gear. When the opening ceremony kicks off, Ogun will be more than ready,” he added.
The 2025 National Sports Festival is scheduled to begin on May 16 and is expected to attract athletes, officials, and fans from across the country.
