On behalf of His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, I extend a warm welcome back to our beloved country. Congratulations on your exceptional performance at the recently concluded 13th African Games held in the Republic of Ghana.

Over two weeks, fifty-two countries fiercely competed in twenty-nine sports, showcasing the highest level of competition to secure honors for their nations. Nigeria participated in twenty-five of these sports.

From our stellar athletes who dominated the tracks to our impressive wrestlers, boxers, weightlifters, and other remarkable sportsmen and women who displayed exceptional prowess, the resilient Nigerian spirit shone brightly, overcoming any pre-game challenges. The nation is grateful for your hard work and dedication.

Throughout the games, both Africa and the world witnessed the unwavering spirit of the African continent, with our athletes at the forefront, highlighting the immense potential of Nigeria and its significance for Africa and beyond. Your remarkable performance propelled our country to a second-place finish, with forty-seven gold medals, thirty-three silver medals, and forty-one bronze medals, totaling one hundred and twenty-one medals, outperforming fifty-two competing countries.

This achievement is a testament for which the government of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians will forever be proud. Thank you, great athletes, for showcasing the strength, resilience, and excellence of Nigeria.

Our sports-loving President and the majority of Nigerians warmly congratulate you for your bravery and accomplishments, placing the country as a leading sports powerhouse on the African continent.

As you celebrate your successes, let me remind you that preparations for the 14th African Games in Egypt begin now. As your Sports Development Minister, dubbed Nigeria's GamesMaster General, I assure you of my unwavering support. We must prioritize investment in development and preparation if we hope to once again lead the medals table, as we did in 2003 when we hosted the Games. Efforts will focus on strengthening our most successful sports while addressing areas where we historically underperform, such as swimming, through strategic planning and investment.

In the meantime, the Ministry is committed to establishing sustainable incentives to prioritize the welfare of our athletes.

Thank you once again to our gallant heroes and heroines as I welcome you home.