Abeokuta: The Ogun Government has unveiled the mascot, logo, and theme song for the 2024 National Sports Festival, also known as the Gateway Games 2024. At the unveiling ceremony in Abeokuta on Tuesday evening, Gov. Dapo Abiodun announced that the state was prepared to deliver a memorable National Sports Festival from May 16 to May 30.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Gov. Abiodun, represented by his Deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, stated that the festival would serve as a reference point in the history of the games. “We are ready to raise the bar significantly, close to two decades after Ogun last hosted the multi-sports event. The mascot reflects the energy and cultural heritage of the good people of Ogun,” he said.
The governor praised the Local Organising Committee for their dedication in ensuring the event’s success. He mentioned that the state government had invested significantly in sporting facilities, which are expected to remain beneficial even beyond the games.
Abiodun assured team Ogun athletes of the state’s unwavering support and encouraged citizens to actively participate and warmly welcome guests throughout the festival. He described sports as a unifying tool and a stepping stone for athletes seeking global recognition and success.
He called for stakeholder support, emphasizing the importance of collective effort to achieve the festival’s goals. “The 2024 edition will raise the bar through innovative ideas and world-class preparations that will redefine the entire festival experience. The theme song, composed by Dr. Bayo Adepetun, and the mascot, designed by a creative team from the state’s Ministry of Culture. The symbolic elements reflect the energy, cultural heritage, and aspirations of the good people of Ogun,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the sports festival, the 26th edition, is a biennial multi-sports event that brings together thousands of athletes from Nigeria’s 36 States and the Federal Capital Territory to celebrate sportsmanship, national unity, and sporting excellence. The festival, a celebration of Nigeria’s sports and cultural heritage, is set to feature athletes competing in 33 sporting events.
