Sports

6 Days to Go: Gateway Games 2024 – A Celebration Beyond Sports

Published

6 months ago

May 10, 2025

With just six days remaining, excitement continues to build across Nigeria as Ogun State prepares to host the 22nd National Sports Festival, also known as the Gateway Games 2024. Scheduled to take place from May 16th to 31st, this year’s edition is more than a sporting competition—it is a national celebration of unity, culture, and development.

The festival will feature 33 sports, drawing participation from all 36 states of the federation, the FCT, and invited junior athletes, with over 10,000 athletes expected to compete. It promises to be one of the largest gatherings of sports talent in the history of the event.

A Cultural Showcase Like No Other

Ogun State, deeply rooted in heritage and tradition, is set to offer a powerful display of Nigerian culture. From vibrant performances during the opening and closing ceremonies to daily exhibitions of art, dance, and indigenous craftsmanship, the festival will celebrate the diversity that defines the nation. Visitors and participants alike will have the opportunity to engage with local customs and cultural expressions from all regions of Nigeria.

An Economic Catalyst for Ogun State

The festival is already stimulating economic activity across the state. Thousands of athletes, officials, and spectators will inject new energy into Ogun’s economy, benefiting local businesses, hospitality providers, transportation services, and informal traders. From hotels to markets, the influx of guests is expected to significantly boost revenue and promote tourism in the host communities.

A Premium Spectator Experience

Spectators can look forward to a thoughtfully curated experience. Fan engagement zones, live entertainment, digital information displays, and enhanced security measures will ensure a safe, interactive, and memorable environment for everyone attending. Family-friendly spaces and local culinary showcases will further enrich the experience for both local residents and visitors.

Legacy-Driven Infrastructure Improvements

Ogun State has made strategic investments in infrastructure, with significant upgrades to key venues including the M.K.O. Abiola International Stadium and the Alake Sports Centre. For the first time in the history of the National Sports Festival, all contingents will be accommodated in a dedicated Games Village, fostering greater collaboration, unity, and logistical efficiency. These developments are set to leave a lasting legacy for future sporting events and community use.

Adding to the momentum is the recent appointment of 1980 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) winner, Chief Segun Odegbami, as the Grand Sports Ambassador of Ogun State. A legendary figure in Nigerian sports, Chief Odegbami’s legacy, leadership, and advocacy for youth development reflect the values the festival aims to promote.

With only six days to go, the 22nd National Sports Festival promises to be a landmark event for Nigerian sports, culture, and national development.

Share on Facebook

Sports

Lagos State Sports Commission, Abbey Rangers FC Seal Groundbreaking Partnership for Grassroots Football Development

Published

7 mins ago

November 5, 2025

The Gleamer

The Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC) has unveiled a groundbreaking partnership with Abbey Rangers Football Club, a renowned community football institution in the United Kingdom, marking a new era in grassroots football development in Nigeria.

Under this strategic alliance, Abbey Rangers FC will collaborate with the Lagos State Sports Commission to implement a robust seven-pillar framework focused on:
talent development, coaching enhancement, sports science, community engagement, policy support, resource mobilization, and infrastructure growth.

The partnership is a first of its kind between Nigeria and a UK-based community football club and aims to create a sustainable, inclusive, and globally competitive football ecosystem in Lagos State. It promises to unlock new international opportunities for young athletes and coaches, offering pathways for advanced training, mentorship, and global exposure.

Speaking at the official unveiling, Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Mr. Lekan Fatodu, described the partnership as “a landmark step in Lagos’ mission to build a sustainable and inclusive sports ecosystem.”

“This collaboration represents a deliberate effort to connect Lagos with global best practices in grassroots football development,” Fatodu stated.

“Abbey Rangers brings proven expertise and community-driven values that align with our vision to nurture world-class talent and position Lagos as a continental hub for youth sports excellence.”

In his remarks, Abbey Rangers Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Nick Riley, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting that it reflects the club’s long-standing commitment to community-driven sports development.

“We are proud to partner with Lagos State on this visionary initiative,” Riley said.

“Abbey Rangers has always believed that community football is a powerful tool for development, inclusion, and opportunity. This collaboration allows us to share our grassroots model and experience with one of Africa’s most dynamic cities.”

The LSSC–Abbey Rangers partnership is a reflection of Lagos State’s strategic commitment to developing the next generation of football talent through international collaboration, innovation, and community-based sports programs. It also reaffirms the Commission’s leadership in driving sports diplomacy and youth empowerment across Africa.

Share on Facebook