Sports

14 Days to Go: Ogun State Ready to Host Nigeria’s Biggest Sports Festival Yet

Published

1 year ago

May 2, 2025

Nearly two decades after making history in 2006, Ogun State is once again taking center stage. Back then, the Gateway Games left a lasting impression on the nation under the visionary leadership of the then Ogun State Governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel and then Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Bukola Olopade.

The much-anticipated 22nd National Sports Festival is now at our doorsteps, and excitement is reaching crescendo.

Athletes, coaches, fans, stakeholders, and sports enthusiasts across the country are gearing up for what promises to be Nigeria’s biggest sporting spectacle—the 2024 Gateway Games.

Today, in 2025, Olopade returns with double the influence—serving as both the Chairman of the Main Organizing Committee (MOC) and the Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC).

From May 16th to 31st, Ogun State will welcome between 12,000 to 15,000 athletes from across Nigeria, competing in over 32 sports. Preparations are in top gear to deliver a festival that celebrates talent, unity, sportsmanship, and national pride.

The leadership of the National Sports Commission (NSC) led by Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, has been instrumental in driving the momentum and vision behind the 22nd National Sports Festival (NSF). Known for his strategic acumen and results-oriented approach, Dikko has brought his wealth of experience to mobilize resources, foster collaboration across sectors, and set clear performance benchmarks as a strong foundation for the success of the Festival.

The legendary MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta now upgraded with brand-new tartan tracks and world-class facilities, will be the heart of the action. Its Olympic-sized swimming pool is set to host top-tier aquatic events, while the handball and tennis courts are sporting fresh, vibrant looks.

Elsewhere, the Alake Sports Centre in Ijeja, Abeokuta has undergone a major facelift, including improved flooring, roofing, lighting, and upgraded indoor arenas. The refurbished multi-sport complex is ready to host martial arts, squash, boxing, basketball, volleyball, badminton, and more.

Additional venues such as the Remo Stars Sports Complex in Ikenne, Abeokuta Sports Club, and Babcock University are also prepared to welcome participants. Babcock University, in particular, is primed to serve as a vibrant athletes’ village, offering accommodation, medical support, and catering services.

With facilities nearing completion and the finishing touches being applied to logistics, Ogun State is set to deliver a festival that will not only raise the bar but also leave athletes and fans with lifelong memories.

Gateway Games 2024 is more than a sporting event—it’s a celebration of Nigeria’s enduring spirit and a tribute to our nation’s rich sports heritage.

Let the countdown begin!

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Sports

29 Days To AACT 2026: IBB Club Renewal Heralds Nigeria’s African Golf Showcase

Published

5 hours ago

October 4, 2026

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

With 29 days to the 2026 All Africa Challenge Trophy (AACT), Nigeria is stepping up preparations to host the continental women’s team golf championship, with the extensive rehabilitation of the IBB International Golf and Country Club in Abuja providing a major boost to the country’s readiness.

In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja Director of Communication AACT 2026, Kayode Adeniyi said the Club’s Board of Trustees has assured that the facility will be fully prepared to welcome golfers, officials and delegates from across Africa when the championship tees off on November 2.

Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Hon. Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, CFR, gave the assurance after inspecting ongoing rehabilitation works at the Club, expressing satisfaction with the progress recorded so far.

The IBB International Golf and Country Club has undergone extensive rehabilitation following its closure to regular golfing activities for more than a year. The intervention has focused on the golf course, selected holes, the clubhouse and other key facilities required to provide a befitting venue for the continental championship.

Justice Dongban-Mensem expressed confidence that the rehabilitation programme would be completed in time for the AACT, further reassuring stakeholders that the Club would be ready to host Africa’s leading female golfers.

Chairman of the Club’s Interim Management Committee, Peter Deshi, also expressed optimism over the progress of work, with regular golfing activities expected to resume ahead of the championship.

For the Ladies Golf Association of Nigeria (LGAN), the readiness of the host venue remains a critical component of the country’s preparations.

President of the Association, Dr. Lami Ahmed, has similarly expressed confidence in Nigeria’s preparations to stage a successful championship.

The 2026 AACT is scheduled to take place from November 2 to 7 at the IBB International Golf and Country Club, Abuja.

With the countdown now entering its final month, the rehabilitation of the Club is sending a strong message about Nigeria’s determination to deliver a successful championship and provide a worthy stage for Africa’s finest female golfers.

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