The federal government has commended Ogun State for its continuous commitment to hosting a world-class National Sports Festival as the event draws closer.
The Local Organising Committee (LOC) with the firm support of the NSC officially unveiled Premium Trust Bank as the lead sponsor of the festival on Wednesday in Abeokuta.
This was contained in a press statement signed by issued Tuesday by Director of Information and Public relations, NSC, Ms. Ajayi Kehinde.
Speaking, Chairman of NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko, lauded Ogun State’s dedication to ensuring a seamless and memorable festival.
He emphasised the importance of corporate and private sector support in shaping the future of Nigerian sports in line with vission of the NSC.
Dkkko noted: “The unveiling of Premium Trust Bank as the lead sponsor for the 2024 National Sports Festival is a testament to the rising confidence of the private sector in Nigerian sports.
“Ogun State has demonstrated an extraordinary level of commitment, and this partnership is a step toward elevating the festival to execeptional standard.”
Dikko further underscored the economic and social benefits of the festival, noting its potential to boost tourism, generate employment, and stimulate the local economy.
He added: “Beyond the thrill of competition, the Gateway Games 2024 will drive economic growth, create opportunities for young athletes, and showcase Ogun State as a hub for sports excellence as well as its economic potentials.
“The National Sports Commission stands fully behind this vision and will provide every necessary support to ensure its success and the legacy of the hosting the games to the state is enduring.
“This festival is more than just a sporting event—it is a celebration of talent, resilience, and the boundless potential of Nigerian sports. With Ogun State’s level of preparation and the commitment of all stakeholders, I have no doubt that the Gateway Games 2024 will be the most remarkable edition yet,” Dikko stated.
The National Sports Festival, often tagged the Nigerian Olympics is owned by the NSC, and it is expected to feature over 20,000 participants across the 36 states plus the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) with the introduction of Invited Junior Athletes (IJA ) as the 38th State .
The competition will run from the 16th of May to the 30th of May 2025.