The 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games 2024, is set to kick off today, Sunday, May 18, 2025, at the MKO Sports Arena in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital.
Two of Nigeria’s finest music superstars, Davido and Asa, will perform live at the highly anticipated opening ceremony, which begins at 5 pm.
According to the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, the festival will portray a global feel in competition and organization, likening it to the Olympics.
“This is our own Olympics, and from start to finish, the festival must portray that global feel, both in competition and organization,” he stated.
Asa will kick off the performances, while Davido will wrap up the ceremony. However, the details of the in-between performances remain under wraps. “I might not reveal all, but I can tell you that Davido will be closing it up, and Asa will be starting it. Nigerians should just stay glued to their television because they are about to witness an opening ceremony like never before,” Olopade teased.
The Gateway Games promise to be an unforgettable experience, with world-class activities and cultural displays lined up to light up the festival. This year’s edition marks a significant milestone, as it’s the first time the festival will have a rancor-free environment for the first two days, with no issues related to hostel and feeding.
Olopade expressed his excitement, saying, “Beyond the aesthetic you are seeing here today, which confirms to everyone what I have been saying, from the opening ceremony to the Games proper, you will be seeing the best.”
The festival is expected to showcase top-notch sports and entertainment, solidifying Ogun State’s reputation as a premier host.
