From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
As the 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games 2024, kicks off in grand style in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Team Kwara, has set its sights on a strong showing, driven by a mix of youthful energy, determined leadership, and solid government support.
The biennial sports event, which runs from May 16 to 30, 2025, gathered athletes from all states of the federation, celebrating national unity through competition in over 25 sporting disciplines.
With a strong historical identity as Nigeria’s version of the Olympics, the festival continues to promote peace and integration—values it was created to uphold in 1973 after the Civil War.
Team Kwara, led by the Executive Chairman of the State Sports Commission, Coach Bolakale Mogaji, is fielding 189 athletes in sports such as football, squash, chess, swimming, cycling, and volleyball. Interestingly, both Coach Mogaji and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, were once athletes at the same festival, having represented the state in football in earlier years.
Related News
Speaking on Team Kwara’s preparedness, Coach Mogaji commended Governor AbdulRazaq for prioritising sports development in the state.
“The governor ensured we had all we needed—training facilities, quality accommodation, feeding, allowances—everything. The athletes are ready, motivated and focused. We’re not just here to participate, we’re here to win,” he said.
He also charged coaches and officials to be professional in their conduct.
“Discipline is key. Coaches must guide these athletes well, arrive early to venues, and show leadership. Kwara is watching, and our young athletes need us to show them the way.”
The team, housed at Babcock University in Ilisan-Remo, was received by top officials including the state Director of Sports, Mallam Ibrahim Bako; Alhaji Owolabi Wopa of the Ilorin Emirate Football Council; and other members of the delegation.
At the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, the opening ceremony dazzled the crowd with cultural performances and musical displays headlined by stars Davido and Asa. The vibrant procession of states, including a culturally themed appearance by Team Kwara, underscored the deep connection between sports and Nigeria’s rich heritage.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, officially declared the games open. In his address, he reiterated the Federal Government’s dedication to sports as a tool for unity and youth empowerment under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State described the event as a moment of pride and praised the presidency for its unwavering support of youth and sports. Other notable figures in attendance included former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka, and top government officials.
Mallam Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, alongside Director-General Bukola Olopade, emphasized the need to view sports as a serious national asset for development, job creation, and social cohesion.
With the competition now underway, the hopes of Kwara residents rest on the shoulders of their young athletes. Their display of readiness, discipline, and cultural pride has already turned heads.
