The Gateway Games 2024 has successfully come to an end today as “It was a moment of pride not only for us as a state but for the entire nation”, Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, said.
The grand closing ceremony of the National Sports Festival 2024, tagged, Gateway Games 2024 – “a celebration of unity, talent, resilience, and the boundless potential of Nigerian youth” – held yesterday, Thursday 29 May, 2024.
More than 14,000 athletes competed in the Games in various Sporting events; the Gateway Games 2024 which kicked off on 16 May concluded today, Friday 30 May, 2025.
The Governor said, he is “immensely proud” of what the Southwestern State has achieved by hosting the NSF 2024, saying, the entire activity “has raised the bar in every sense”.
For making the event a “resounding success”, he expressed his gratitude to “all participants, sponsors and the wonderful people” of Ogun State, saying, “this is not just the end of a festival — it is the beginning of a new era for sports development in Ogun State”.
In his message of gratitude, Governor Abiodun wrote: “GatewayGames2024: A Glorious Finale to a Historic Festival
“Yesterday, we witnessed the grand closing ceremony of GatewayGames2024 — a celebration of unity, talent, resilience, and the boundless potential of Nigerian youth. It was a moment of pride not only for us as a state but for the entire nation.
“Over the past days, Ogun State has hosted thousands of athletes, coaches, officials, and visitors from across Nigeria. We came together through the spirit of sportsmanship, breaking records, building friendships, and showcasing the power of sports as a tool for national development and social harmony.
“We are immensely proud of what we have achieved. From the world-class facilities to the seamless organization, to the passion of the athletes and the overwhelming support from the people of Ogun State, GatewayGames2024 has raised the bar in every sense.
“We thank all participants, volunteers, sponsors, partners, and the wonderful people of our state for making this event a resounding success. This is not just the end of a festival — it is the beginning of a new era for sports development in Ogun State.
“As we bring the curtain down on this historic event, we renew our commitment to investing in youth and sports, fostering unity, and building a future driven by excellence.
“GatewayGames2024”
Photo: X/@DapoAbiodunCON