Segun Ayinde, Abeokuta
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has described the just-concluded 22nd National Sports Festival, held in Ogun State, as a triumph of unity and a display of exceptional talent by athletes from across Nigeria.
Obasanjo made this known in a statement released in Abeokuta on Thursday night by his media aide, Kehinde Akinyemi, shortly after the closing ceremony of the two-week-long Gateway Games 2024.
He noted that the festival provided a unique platform for athletes drawn from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to compete not only for medals but also to forge friendships and promote a united Nigeria.
The former two-term civilian president, who was physically present at the opening ceremony, said he followed the events from the comfort of his home and was impressed by the quality of competition and organisation.
He lauded Governor Dapo Abiodun for his leadership and unwavering commitment to making the festival a reality and a lasting legacy for Ogun State.
“I thank Governor Dapo Abiodun for the successful hosting of the 2024 Gateway Games. His leadership, commitment, and dedication have delivered not just a sports festival, but a legacy. Ogun State has demonstrated strength, capacity, and hospitality,” Obasanjo said.
He also extended appreciation to the National Sports Commission, the Main Organising Committee, the Local Organising Committee, partners, and thousands of volunteers who contributed to the festival’s success.
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To the athletes and officials, Obasanjo said:
“Over the past two weeks, Nigeria’s sons and daughters, from every region and creed, have competed not just for medals, but for honour, friendship, and to demonstrate the unyielding hope for a strong and united country.”
He urged the participants to spread the spirit of the festival to their schools, communities, and institutions, encouraging the youth to contribute to the development of the nation.
“As someone who has walked the lanes of leadership and who has always believed in Nigeria’s boundless potential, I urge all of you not to let the flame kindled here in Ogun go dim. Let it burn in our schools, communities, and institutions — and in every young heart determined to build the Nigeria we must have,” he added.
Wishing the athletes a safe journey back to their destinations, Obasanjo concluded with a call for continued unity and prosperity in Nigeria:
“May the flame we lit here continue to shine across the land. May Nigeria remain strong and prosperous. May our youth stay inspired and empowered. May our unity endure. And may all our efforts build the Nigeria we must have. Goodbye. Ẹ dé’lẹ láyọ̀.”