The highly anticipated 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games Ogun 2024, originally scheduled for January 12, has been postponed. The festival will now take place from May 16 to May 30, 2025, following recommendations from the Joint Technical Meetings held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
In a communiqué issued on Thursday, the Secretary of the Main Organising Committee (MOC), Thecla Opara, explained that the postponement was necessary to implement critical recommendations aimed at delivering a world-class event. The communiqué also revealed that the Zonal Eliminations for Team Sports would now hold from February 23 to February 28, 2025.
Speaking after the meeting, the Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, emphasized the importance of the delay. He acknowledged that while the Ogun State Government and the Local Organising Committee were opposed to the postponement, the decision by the Technical and Main Organising Committees was made with the broader vision of redefining Nigeria’s sports economy and ecosystem.
“This gives us five months to properly prepare and showcase what true capacity is all about. We’re excited to take this time to ensure everything comes together seamlessly,” Olopade stated.
The Chairman of the Technical Committee echoed this sentiment, noting that the current facilities require significant upgrades to align with international standards. He emphasized the need to provide athletes with top-tier conditions akin to those of the Olympics, rather than makeshift accommodations.
“Technically, we reviewed the facilities, and as professionals, we believe in creating an experience that stands out. Fine-tuning the existing infrastructure will elevate the festival to a level where athletes can perform optimally,” he remarked.
With the new timeline in place, stakeholders have been urged to adjust their schedules accordingly. The Ogun State Government has pledged to work diligently to meet the new expectations and deliver an unforgettable sporting event.
As excitement builds for May 2025, the postponement is seen as an opportunity to redefine the National Sports Festival and position it as a hallmark of excellence in Nigeria’s sports history.
