Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has praised the successful hosting of the 22nd National Sports Festival, Gateway Games Ogun 2024, describing it as a remarkable celebration of Nigeria’s unity, youth talent, and collective spirit.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the festival in Abeokuta on Thursday, Obasanjo lauded the Ogun State Government and its people for what he termed a “world-class” execution of the biennial multi-sport event, commending Governor Dapo Abiodun for demonstrating exceptional leadership and commitment to national development through sports.
The elder statesman, who said he closely followed the games, expressed pride in the performance and conduct of the 38 contingents—comprising all 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory, and select junior teams—who he said showcased not only athletic prowess but also the essence of Nigerian unity and excellence.
“Gateway Games Ogun 2024 has been more than a festival of sports – it has been a triumph of unity, a display of talent, and a show of national spirit,” Obasanjo declared.
“I was physically present at the colourful and inspiring Opening Ceremony, and I followed some of the events from the comfort of my room,” he added. “What I witnessed was truly uplifting and worthy of national celebration.”
Obasanjo, fondly called OBJ, stressed the importance of the festival as a platform for discovering and nurturing the nation’s next generation of sports stars, while also promoting peace and mutual understanding across ethnic and regional lines.
“Your participation reminded us that in every young Nigerian lies the capacity for greatness,” he told the athletes. “As you return home, remember that you are all champions—not just of sports, but of unity, resilience, and national pride.”
He specifically hailed Governor Abiodun for raising the bar in sports administration, stating that the successful hosting of the games would serve as a benchmark for future editions across the country.
Obasanjo’s remarks were met with applause from thousands of athletes, officials, dignitaries, and spectators who had gathered to witness the end of what many have described as one of the most organized editions of the National Sports Festival in recent history.
The Gateway Games Ogun 2024, which commenced earlier this month, featured over 10,000 athletes competing in various sporting disciplines, with several national records broken and emerging talents discovered.
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