M: President of the Senate, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sen. Dr. Godswill O. Akpabio, Governor of Ogun State, His Excellency Prince Dapo Abiodun, Chairman, NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko, Former Governor of Ogun State, Aremo Segun Osoba at Closing ceremony of 22nd National Sports Festival, Gateway Games, Ogun 2024, at MKO ABIOLA STADIUM ABEOKUTA, May 29th 2025

As the curtain draws on the 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway 2024 Games, Team Delta has once again stamped its authority as the powerhouse of sports in Nigeria, emerging overall winner for the sixth consecutive time.

Team Delta clinched the top spot with a total of 244 medals – 109 gold, 75 silver, and 60 bronze. Bayelsa followed closely in second place with 189 medals – 99 gold, 68 silver, and 22 bronze. Host state, Ogun, impressed with 179 medals – 64 gold, 69 silver, and 46 bronze finishing a commendable third.

Declaring the festival closed at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, praised the unifying power of sports in showcasing Nigeria’s strength and spirit.

> “As I declare this remarkable edition of the National Sports Festival closed, I also celebrate our unity, strength, and the unbreakable Nigerian spirit. This festival is not just a competition; it is a celebration of honour and reward,” President Tinubu remarked.

He emphasized that sports has evolved beyond recreation to become a critical instrument of national development, economic empowerment, and unity.

> “Sports can raise national pride, create jobs, attract tourism, and boost our economy. We must see it as a tool for national transformation,” he added.

The President encouraged athletes to view sports not just as a game, but as a pathway to greatness and a future filled with purpose and opportunity.

In his remarks, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State hailed the festival’s success as a collective achievement.

> “You all came not just to compete but to connect, collaborate, and celebrate the richness of our national diversity. Our collective energy and enthusiasm made this festival a resounding success,” he said.

Governor Abiodun thanked President Tinubu for his unwavering support for youth and sports development, noting that his leadership has been instrumental in the successful hosting of the event.

> “Your leadership continues to inspire us. A true leader shows the way — and that you have demonstrated through your support,” he added.

He also appreciated the Governors of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, as well as the leadership of the National Sports Commission, for ensuring the widespread participation and smooth execution of the festival.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who also attended the closing ceremony, emphasized that the festival is not just about medals, but about fostering unity and hope for a stronger Nigeria.

> “Athletes must see themselves not just as champions in sports but as symbols of unity, diligence, resilience, and national pride,” he said.

The Chairman, National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, reiterated the transformative power of sports, stating that the Gateway Games demonstrated the economic viability of sports in Nigeria.

> “Sports have become a pillar for youth engagement, international diplomacy, and economic empowerment. The Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu is clearly making sports an economic hub,” Dikko said.

He praised Governor Abiodun and the people of Ogun State for creating an enabling environment and setting a new standard in festival hosting.

Looking ahead to the next edition, Dikko expressed confidence that Enugu State, the next host, would uphold the high standard.

The Chairman also lauded the athletes for their resilience, talent, and dignity, urging them to nurture the friendships and connections built during the games for national unity.

The Director General, National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, described Gateway 2024 as the best edition in the festival’s history.

> “Go tell it to the East, West, North, and South — even to New York and South Africa — that Nigeria has gotten it right,” Olopade declared.

Having been involved in the National Sports Festival for over two decades, Olopade commended Ogun State for surpassing all previous hosts in planning, hospitality, and delivery.

He also thanked Mallam Shehu Dikko for his dedication and the organizing committees for their exceptional work.

The festival ended in a vibrant atmosphere of celebration, entertainment, and national pride, with the stadium filled to capacity in what many described as a fitting climax to a historic sporting event.

Dr. (Mrs.) Kehinde Ajayi FCAI ANIPR

Director (Information and PR)

May 30,2025