Sports

Unforgettable Start: Gateway Games 2024 Opens with World-Class Ceremony

Published

2 weeks ago

May 19, 2025

By Joel Ajayi

Call it a gateway of excellence, a gateway of prosperity, or a symbol of national unity and peace—you won’t be wrong.

It was an evening filled with entertainment, laughter, and celebration as Nigerians came together to embrace the nation’s rich and diverse culture. The 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games 2024, kicked off on Sunday with what many have described as the most colorful and spectacular opening ceremony in the history of the games.

The event featured vibrant cultural displays showcasing Nigeria’s heritage, with electrifying musical performances that lit up the night. Renowned Nigerian artistes Asa and Davido headlined the ceremony—Asa opened with a soulful performance, while Davido brought the curtain down with an energetic and thrilling finale.

More than 10,000 athletes from the 36 states of the federation, the Federal Capital Territory, and the Invited Junior Athletes Team are competing in 33 sports disciplines. The festival will be held across multiple venues in Abeokuta, including the Alake Sports Centre, the newly renovated MKO Abiola Stadium, Remo Stars Stadium, and Babcock University Sports Complex.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, welcomed state delegates and assured them of a groundbreaking event that will set new standards in the history of Nigerian sports.

The sporting community, both at home and abroad, was captivated by the world-class spectacle, infused with rich cultural heritage and star-studded performances.

In his address, Hon. Olopade emphasized the core values of the festival—love, focus, discipline, and unity. He noted that the festival is not just a sporting event, but a celebration of integrity and sportsmanship.

“Let medals be won with honor, not by crook,” he urged, stressing the importance of fair play and true athletic spirit.

The DG acknowledged the unwavering support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whose vision and leadership he credited for the transformation currently taking place in Nigerian sports.

“We are where we are today—revamping, reshaping, and resetting our sports ecosystem—because of Mr. President’s vision. He is the reason the National Sports Festival now has a world-class standard, and we will continue to thank him,” he said.

He also commended the Chairman of the NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko, for his dedication to the success of the festival.

“Mallam Dikko has shown immense commitment and passion for this project. That spirit must be reflected in every athlete and official involved,” he added.

Hon. Olopade expressed deep appreciation to the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for his exceptional support in mobilizing resources and empowering stakeholders. He described the games as “a festival of modern times,” poised to place Ogun State on both the national and international sports map.

Welcoming participants to the state, Hon. Olopade concluded with emotion: “Welcome to my story—a game I bid for, a journey that has my name written all over it.”

As anticipation builds, Gateway Games 2024 is shaping up to be a landmark edition of the National Sports Festival—celebrating not just athletic excellence, but also unity, passion, and the enduring Nigerian spirit.

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Sports

Paul Salami Fires Hat-Trick as U23 Side Defeats 10-Man Melbourne Sharks

Published

13 hours ago

June 3, 2025

The Gleamer

Jeph Akanji

Paul Salami’s Stunning Hat-Trick Sinks 10-Man Melbourne Sharks in U23 Showdown

Nigerian-born midfielder Paul Salami stole the show with a sensational hat-trick, leading his side to a dominant 3-0 victory over the Melbourne Sharks in Week 9 of the Australian U23 League.

The 21-year-old rising star opened the scoring in the 20th minute, calmly finishing off a swift counter-attack to put his team ahead. The momentum shifted further in their favor when Sharks defender Liam Mastos received a straight red card in the 40th minute for a reckless challenge, forcing the home side to play with 10 men.

Salami continued to exploit the numerical advantage with clinical precision. He netted his second goal in the 52nd minute, capping off a well-orchestrated team move, before sealing his hat-trick in the 75th minute with a composed finish that left the goalkeeper with no chance.

Operating with poise and creativity in midfield, Salami’s performance was a masterclass in attacking intelligence, control, and execution. His match-winning display not only earned him the match ball but also solidified his growing reputation as one of the most exciting young talents in the league.

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