Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun and the All Progressives Congress leader, Aremo Olusegun Osoba led National Assembly members among others from the state to the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
They were received by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for the historic lighting ceremony of the "Torch of Unity", marking the commencement of activities for the 22nd National Sports Festival (Gateway Games Ogun State 2024). At precisely 2:15pm in the forecourt of the State House, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu personally ignited the symbolic torch in the presence of a high-level delegation from the National Sports Commission.
This revered tradition not only heralds the upcoming sporting event scheduled for May 16-30, 2025, but more significantly, represents the enduring peace and unity of our great nation while raising awareness about this prestigious competition. The senator representing Ogun Central, Shuaib Salisu, who was among the dignitaries emphasized that "Ogun State, with a legacy of pioneering achievements across all sectors, is fully prepared to deliver a world-class sporting festival in May 2025".
He noted that the event will showcase the state's organizational capabilities while promoting national unity through sports. According to him, the successful hosting of the ceremony underscores their collective commitment to youth development, sports excellence and national cohesion. He commended President Tinubu for his unwavering support and Governor Abiodun for his visionary leadership in bringing this national event to the state.