Virtually two decades after recording indisputably most exciting, well organized and fulfilling sports festival in Nigeria, the attention of sports enthusiasts globally will centre on Ogun State From May 16th to 30th, 2025. This time around, the state will welcome between 12,000 to 15,000 athletes from across the 36 states of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory, (FCT).
Considering the quality of sporting facilities provided by Governor Dapo Abiodun for the games, Ogun State is likely to be internationally recognized as “the state for excellence in sports”. Pointing out the safety and accessibility of the facilities that have been put in place by the government of Ogun State under the leadership and supervision of Governor Abiodun, sports professionals will agree with me that the quality of these facilities is not only superb but also awe-inspiring!
As athletes, coaches, fans, trainers, stakeholders and sports enthusiasts nationally gear up for what promises to be Nigeria’s biggest sporting pageant– the 2024 Gateway Games, In Abeokuta, the famous MKO Abiola International Stadium, has now been renovated and upgraded with brand-new tartan tracks and world-class facilities. These facilities now include an Olympic-sized swimming pool, handball courts, tennis courts, and basketball courts. Also, the Alake Sports Centre in Ijeja, has been fully refurbished with unique roofing, flooring, lighting, and improved indoor arenas. The restored multi-sport complex is ready to host martial arts, boxing, squash, basketball, volleyball, badminton, and more.
Other venues include the Remo Stars Sports Complex in Ikenne, Babcock University and Abeokuta Sports Club.
Talking of the accommodation, medical support, logistics and catering services, the arrangement on ground cannot be quantified. Big kudos for the Governor and the vibrant Local Organising Committee, (LOC).
Furthermore, the Bukola Olopade factor in the much-anticipated Sports Festival cannot be overemphasized. In 2025, Olopade, the son of the soil, returns with double the influence—serving as both the Chairman of the Main Organizing Committee (MOC) and the Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC).
The proactiveness of the Hon. Commissioner for Sports Development in Ogun State, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, speaks a lot. In conclusion, with the quality of the on-ground facilities, medical services, logistics, accommodation and the personalities involved, Ogun State will host best-ever National Sports Festival.
Ola Muritala
Special Assistant to the Governor of Ogun State on New Media and Chairman, team Ogun subcommittee on New Media.
