The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has assured  state delegates during  of a groundbreaking festival that will set new benchmarks in organization, integrity, and sportsmanship.

“This festival will not only be a celebration of athletic prowess but a testament to discipline, unity, and integrity,” Olopade declared. “Let medals be won with honor, not by crook,” he emphasized, underscoring the importance of fair play and true sportsmanship.

The Opening Ceremony, held in Ogun State, was a spectacle of color and culture, featuring electrifying performances by global Nigerian stars Davido and Asa, to the delight of spectators and participants from across the country and beyond.

Hon. Olopade credited the transformation of Nigerian sports to the unwavering support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whom he praised for his visionary leadership.

“We are where we are today — revamping, reshaping, and resetting our sports ecosystem — because of Mr. President. He is the reason the National Sports Festival now reflects a world-class standard,” he said.

He also commended the Chairman of the NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko, for his dedication to the festival’s success, describing his commitment as a model for athletes and officials alike.

The DG extended heartfelt gratitude to Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for his instrumental role in mobilizing resources and empowering stakeholders, calling the event “a festival of modern times” poised to put Ogun on both the national and international sports map.

With pride and emotion, Hon. Olopade welcomed participants to Ogun, stating, “Welcome to my story — a game I bid for, a journey that has my name written all over it.”

As competition begins, expectations are high that Gateway Games 2024 will be remembered not just for the medals won, but for the unity, passion, and spirit it inspires across the nation.